theheartysoul--2020-09-22--Man Searching For Wife In Wildfires Asked Burned Woman For Help Not Realising It Was Her

Over labour day weekend , Oregon saw the most intense wildfire event ever recorded .
A combination of high winds and extremely low humidity caused dozens of fires to start between Monday and Tuesday .
Those fires quickly spread across the landscape , covering more than 230 thousand acres [ 1 ] .
Since the fires began , thousands of residents have been forced to evacuate their homes .
Two small cities in southern Oregon that were home to eleven thousand people , Phoenix and Talent , have been completely destroyed .
At least four people have died [ 2 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people of Oregon have experienced over the last few weeks has been devastating .
One man in particular experienced this loss more than most , when his search for his wife and family ended tragically .
Chris Tofte lived in Lyons , Oregon , with his wife , Angie , her mother , Peggy , and their thirteen-year-old son , Wyatt .
Thinking they had time before they needed to evacuate , Chris had driven into town to borrow a friend ’ s trailer .
Angie stayed behind to pack up some of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ leave the next morning .
That night , however , the Beachie Creek Fire reached their home , and the family had no choice but to get out immediately .
Angie , Wyatt , Peggy , their dog and their three cats were set to leave when something went wrong .
Although he doesn ’ t know for sure , Chris believes the car likely caught fire .
Without a car , the family would have to escape on foot .
Angie sent her son and their dog , telling them to “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , 71-year-old Peggy , would not be able to run .
She had recently broken her leg and was unable to walk .
Angie had no choice but to leave her mother behind [ 3 ] .
In an effort to save his family , Chris drove as fast as he could back toward their home .
It was four o ’ clock in the morning , the fires were raging and he could barely see through the smoke in the dark of night .
About half way there , as he drove @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a woman wearing only underwear .
Her hair was burnt , her mouth was almost black , and she had severe burns on her bare feet and the rest of her body .
Chris stopped to help her , telling her that he was looking for his wife and son .
That ’ s when she finally spoke up , saying “ I am your wife ” [ 3 ] .
Chris left his wife with paramedics and immediately turned back around to find his son .
By then , however , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t able to make it as far as he had initially .
The next day and night , Chris continued to search .
Some friends and family joined him , while others spread the word by posting pictures of Wyatt on Facebook .
The posts got shared thousands of times .
Sadly , Wyatt was found on Wednesday in the drivers side of a vehicle on the family ’ s property with his dog Duke draped across his lap .
The remains of his grandmother were also found in the car .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ young boy went back to his home [ 3 ] .
Angela is currently in critical condition and is being treated at the Legacy Emanuel Hospital Burn Center in Portland .
She has severe burns to her feet , arms , and back .
Friends of the family have set up a GoFundMe page for donations to Chris and Angie as they struggle through this devastating time.AdvertisementAdvertisement Keep Reading : Amazon tragedy repeats itself as Brazil rainforest goes up in smoke

Man Searching For Wife In Wildfires Asked Burned Woman For Help Not Realising It Was Her
Over labour day weekend, Oregon saw the most intense wildfire event ever recorded. A combination of high winds and extremely low humidity caused dozens of fires to start between Monday and Tuesday. Those fires quickly spread across the landscape, covering more than 230 thousand acres [1].
Since the fires began, thousands of residents have been forced to evacuate their homes. Two small cities in southern Oregon that were home to eleven thousand people, Phoenix and Talent, have been completely destroyed. At least four people have died [2].
The amount of loss the people of Oregon have experienced over the last few weeks has been devastating. One man in particular experienced this loss more than most, when his search for his wife and family ended tragically.
“I Am Your Wife”
Chris Tofte lived in Lyons, Oregon, with his wife, Angie, her mother, Peggy, and their thirteen-year-old son, Wyatt. Thinking they had time before they needed to evacuate, Chris had driven into town to borrow a friend’s trailer. Angie stayed behind to pack up some of their things, with the plan to leave the next morning.
That night, however, the Beachie Creek Fire reached their home, and the family had no choice but to get out immediately. Angie, Wyatt, Peggy, their dog and their three cats were set to leave when something went wrong. Although he doesn’t know for sure, Chris believes the car likely caught fire.
Without a car, the family would have to escape on foot. Angie sent her son and their dog, telling them to “run for it”. Her mother, 71-year-old Peggy, would not be able to run. She had recently broken her leg and was unable to walk. Angie had no choice but to leave her mother behind [3].
In an effort to save his family, Chris drove as fast as he could back toward their home. It was four o’clock in the morning, the fires were raging and he could barely see through the smoke in the dark of night.
About half way there, as he drove down the road, he came across a woman wearing only underwear. Her hair was burnt, her mouth was almost black, and she had severe burns on her bare feet and the rest of her body.
Chris stopped to help her, telling her that he was looking for his wife and son. That’s when she finally spoke up, saying “I am your wife” [3].
Searching for Wyatt
Chris left his wife with paramedics and immediately turned back around to find his son. By then, however, the fires had already spread and he wasn’t able to make it as far as he had initially.
The next day and night, Chris continued to search. Some friends and family joined him, while others spread the word by posting pictures of Wyatt on Facebook. The posts got shared thousands of times.
Sadly, Wyatt was found on Wednesday in the drivers side of a vehicle on the family’s property with his dog Duke draped across his lap. The remains of his grandmother were also found in the car. The family do not know why the young boy went back to his home [3].
“Wyatt, just the sweetest little boy; loved to fish, played video games, like a lot of kids, just a very sweet polite, boy,” said Susan Vaslev, a family spokesperson [2].
Support for the Family
Angela is currently in critical condition and is being treated at the Legacy Emanuel Hospital Burn Center in Portland. She has severe burns to her feet, arms, and back.
Friends of the family have set up a GoFundMe page for donations to Chris and Angie as they struggle through this devastating time.
Keep Reading: Amazon tragedy repeats itself as Brazil rainforest goes up in smoke


theheartysoul--2020-09-23--‘Root Beer Lady’ Lived Alone in a Million-Acre Wilderness

Dubbed “ The Loneliest Woman in America ” , the Root Beer Lady was famous in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness ( BWCAW ) .
Though she lived alone , she was certainly not lonely .
This is her incredible life story .
Dorothy Molter , known in the BWCAW as The Root Beer Lady , lived on the Isle of Pines in Knife Lake from 1934 to 1986 .
Her home was a 15-mile paddle from the nearest road and another 30 miles from the town of Ely in Minnesota .
( 1 ) For most of that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at her cabin in the summers and lived in near-complete solitude in the winters .
Her nick-name , The Root Beer Lady , however , came from the root beer she made using lakewater and served to the canoers that came by her place .
( 1 ) Molter first visited the Northwoods from her home in Chicago for the first time in 1930 while on a family fishing trip .
She absolutely fell in love with the peace and tranquility of nature there .
As the Great Depression took hold of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nursing job in the city .
( 1 ) Advertisement She went back to the Isle of Pines and began working under Bill Berglund at his fishing camp .
He was 30 years older than her , and he told her if she stayed to help him run the camp he would leave her the four-cabin resort .
Berglund passed away in 1948 , and so Molter took over the camp at the age of 41 .
( 1 ) Molter quickly gained a wide-spread reputation as “ The Nightingale of the Woods @ @ @ @ @ @ @ responder of the wilderness ” and took care of injured canoers and animals alike .
( 1 ) She did several patch-jobs , including removing fish hooks from various body parts and splinting broken bones .
Once she even kept a boy alive who had been struck by lightning until first responders arrived by plane .
( 1 ) Despite all of these accolades , the most curious part about Molter for other people was her lifestyle : A single , unmarried woman living alone in the woods .
( 1 ) An @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the woods meant that she had to be able to do a number of tasks , including ( 1 ) : • Harvest ice in the winter to be used in the summer She was once quoted saying that she would only marry a man who could catch more fish , chop more wood , or portage heavier loads than she could .
Needless to say , she never married .
( 1 ) Read : The Woman Who Lives 200,000 Years in the Past Preservation Efforts Threatened Her Way of Life The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to preserve the wilderness of the Northwoods and the BWCAW .
In 1952 , they stopped allowing floatplanes to the island that she lived on .
( 1 ) Next , The Wilderness Act of 1964 stated that all buildings – businesses and residences – had to be removed from the area .
The US Forest Service sent Molter numerous letters ordering her to vacate the premises , all of which she ignored .
Though she was forced to close the fishing camp , she obtained special permission to stay on the island @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and the public .
( 1 ) Without floatplanes , she was no longer able to bring in the various bottled drinks that she used to have for the paddlers who came by .
Ever an innovator , she began to make her own out of lakewater .
( 1 ) She bought the flavoring syrup from the Ely A & W and the local Boy Scout Base .
She then blended it with sugar and yeast for carbonation .
Having nowhere to dispose of the hundreds of glass bottles she had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and used those bottles for her root beer .
( 1 ) AdvertisementAdvertisement She didn ’ t do it all completely without help .
Often friends and family members came to the island to help Molter brew the drink , and they even had “ ice cutting parties ” in the winter to help her fully stock the icebox for the following summer .
Legally not allowed to operate an official business , she instead asked for a small donation from every person who had a bottle .
( 1 ) The drink @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , but the novelty of purchasing it from The Root Beer Lady was enough to attract paddlers to go through 12,000 bottles of it every summer .
( 1 ) Read : 103-Year-Old Runner Nicknamed “ Hurricane ” Wins Yet Another Gold in 100-Meter Dash Despite requests from friends and family to come live in the city as she aged , she lived out the rest of her life on her island .
She occasionally visited family in Chicago during the winter , but otherwise , she stayed where she was .
( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cabin in 1986 , a group who named themselves “ Dorothy ’ s Angels ” started the big project of moving her cabin home to Ely to make a museum in her honor .
They completed the task over winter with the help of primarily the local boy scouts on dog sleds .
( 1 ) Still operational , the Dorothy Molter Museum provides a taste of her life and former fishing camp for visitors , and of course of her sweet , bubbly root beer .
( 1 ) Keep Reading : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ biked the Himalayas to oppose human trafficking

Dubbed “The Loneliest Woman in America”, the Root Beer Lady was famous in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW). Though she lived alone, she was certainly not lonely. This is her incredible life story.
The Root Beer Lady
Dorothy Molter, known in the BWCAW as The Root Beer Lady, lived on the Isle of Pines in Knife Lake from 1934 to 1986. Her home was a 15-mile paddle from the nearest road and another 30 miles from the town of Ely in Minnesota. (1)
For most of that time, she ran a fishing camp at her cabin in the summers and lived in near-complete solitude in the winters. Her nick-name, The Root Beer Lady, however, came from the root beer she made using lakewater and served to the canoers that came by her place. (1)
Her Backstory
Molter first visited the Northwoods from her home in Chicago for the first time in 1930 while on a family fishing trip. She absolutely fell in love with the peace and tranquility of nature there. As the Great Depression took hold of the country, she struggled to find a nursing job in the city. (1)
She went back to the Isle of Pines and began working under Bill Berglund at his fishing camp. He was 30 years older than her, and he told her if she stayed to help him run the camp he would leave her the four-cabin resort. Berglund passed away in 1948, and so Molter took over the camp at the age of 41. (1)
Not Just a Fishing Camp Instructor
Molter quickly gained a wide-spread reputation as “The Nightingale of the Woods”. She was “the first responder of the wilderness” and took care of injured canoers and animals alike. (1) She did several patch-jobs, including removing fish hooks from various body parts and splinting broken bones.
Once she even kept a boy alive who had been struck by lightning until first responders arrived by plane. (1)
Despite all of these accolades, the most curious part about Molter for other people was her lifestyle: A single, unmarried woman living alone in the woods. (1) An unassuming woman, to live alone in the woods meant that she had to be able to do a number of tasks, including (1):
Chop wood
Haul lakewater
Harvest ice in the winter to be used in the summer
She was once quoted saying that she would only marry a man who could catch more fish, chop more wood, or portage heavier loads than she could. Needless to say, she never married. (1)
Read: The Woman Who Lives 200,000 Years in the Past
Preservation Efforts Threatened Her Way of Life
The United States Government began putting in measures to preserve the wilderness of the Northwoods and the BWCAW. In 1952, they stopped allowing floatplanes to the island that she lived on. (1)
Next, The Wilderness Act of 1964 stated that all buildings – businesses and residences – had to be removed from the area. The US Forest Service sent Molter numerous letters ordering her to vacate the premises, all of which she ignored. Though she was forced to close the fishing camp, she obtained special permission to stay on the island with the help of environmentalists, politicians, and the public. (1)
A New Era
Without floatplanes, she was no longer able to bring in the various bottled drinks that she used to have for the paddlers who came by. Ever an innovator, she began to make her own out of lakewater. (1)
She bought the flavoring syrup from the Ely A&W and the local Boy Scout Base. She then blended it with sugar and yeast for carbonation. Having nowhere to dispose of the hundreds of glass bottles she had collected over the years, she cleaned and used those bottles for her root beer. (1)
She didn’t do it all completely without help. Often friends and family members came to the island to help Molter brew the drink, and they even had “ice cutting parties” in the winter to help her fully stock the icebox for the following summer. Legally not allowed to operate an official business, she instead asked for a small donation from every person who had a bottle. (1)
The drink wasn’t always consistent in flavor, but the novelty of purchasing it from The Root Beer Lady was enough to attract paddlers to go through 12,000 bottles of it every summer. (1)
Read: 103-Year-Old Runner Nicknamed “Hurricane” Wins Yet Another Gold in 100-Meter Dash
The Dorothy Molter Museum
Despite requests from friends and family to come live in the city as she aged, she lived out the rest of her life on her island. She occasionally visited family in Chicago during the winter, but otherwise, she stayed where she was. (1)
She passed away at her cabin in 1986, a group who named themselves “Dorothy’s Angels” started the big project of moving her cabin home to Ely to make a museum in her honor. They completed the task over winter with the help of primarily the local boy scouts on dog sleds. (1)
Still operational, the Dorothy Molter Museum provides a taste of her life and former fishing camp for visitors, and of course of her sweet, bubbly root beer. (1)
Keep Reading: Hundreds of nuns trained in Kung Fu biked the Himalayas to oppose human trafficking
https://www.atlasobscura.com/articles/dorothy-molter-root-beer-lady


theheartysoul--2020-09-23--A Single Opossum Can Kill 5,000 Ticks In One Season, Which Spread Lyme Disease

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ( CDC ) , approximately thirty thousand cases of Lyme disease are reported by state health departments every year .
This number , however , does not reflect every case of Lyme disease in the US .
More recent estimates believe that number may be closer to three hundred thousand [ 1 ] .
Lyme disease cases in the United States have tripled over the last twenty years .
Today , it is the most commonly reported vector-borne disease in the Northern Hemisphere .
The reason for this is because tick @ @ @ @ @ @ @ last two decades , they have doubled their established range [ 2 ] .
Of course , finding an effective treatment for Lyme Disease is of paramount importance .
What is perhaps just as important is figuring out how we can prevent it in the first place .
One way to do this , of course , is to control the tick population .
But how can we keep the number of ticks at a manageable level ?
There may be an unlikely hero in the battle against Lyme Disease : opossums .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ control tick populations , there are many other opossum benefits .
While the exact degree they have on the spread of the disease has not been determined , it ’ s safe to say they ’ re ( at the very least ) lending a helping hand .
In March 2016 , an image of an opossum began circulating on the internet with the following text : But is this true ?
As this photo gained more traction , many people began to express skepticism .
It seemed too good to be true @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from Lyme disease .
In 2014 , the Cary Institute of Ecosystems Studies and NewsTimes published an article outlining the role opossums play in tick control .
Researchers tested the following six species : They then exposed each species to one hundred ticks .
Of the six , they found that opossums were remarkably good at getting rid of ticks .
Opossums groom themselves frequently and thoroughly .
If they find a tick , they lick it off and swallow it .
The team determined that in one season , a single opossum @ @ @ @ @ @ @ while the text in the photo got the numbers wrong , the idea that an opossum kills ticks is true [ 4 ] .
These findings were consistent with another study from 2009 .
This study also found that opossums kill eighty to ninety percent of the ticks that attempt to feed on it .
This study pointed out that a loss of biodiversity ( ie- removing certain animals from an environment ) can cause an increase in insects like ticks , which are vectors for human disease [ 5 ] .
Opossums @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It turns out America ’ s only marsupial is quite a helpful little creature : 1 .
They Take Care of Unwanted Pests Opossums eat more than just ticks .
They also frequently eat cockroaches , rats and mice .
This is helpful to us , because those creatures can be carriers of disease [ 6 ] .
2 .
They Help Keep Your Garden Healthy Opossums also like to eat snails and slugs , which can damage your plants and garden .
They will also often eat overripe fruits or berries that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ keeps your garden nice and clean [ 6 ] .
Opossums are resistant to snake venom , and so they can eat them , too .
In some areas , like in Illinois , opossums prey on southern and northern copperheads and the timber rattlesnake .
This can help to control the snake population , making you less likely to have a run-in with one [ 6 ] .
The best part is , opossums don ’ t pose any threat to humans .
Because of their naturally low body temperature , it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ replicate in an opossum ’ s body .
This means that they are unlikely to get the disease and spread it to humans [ 6 ] .
Laura Simon , wildlife ecologist with the U.S. Humane Society says that people can be so hard on opossums .
They are not particularly cute creatures , and they drool and hiss when they feel threatened .
People see this and think the animal is rabid .
So what can you do to protect opossums ?
First of all , if you see one playing dead @ @ @ @ @ @ @ around it .
If you find a sick , injured , or orphaned opossum , contact your local wildlife organization .
They can send people who are able to help the animal .
Humans often fear wildlife , believing that wild animals pose a threat to people .
While this is sometimes the case , every animal plays a role in the ecosystem .
It is important that we protect biodiversity in order to keep species in balance .
Doing this will protect the environment , and protect us , too .
Keep @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Work for Removing Ticks ?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately thirty thousand cases of Lyme disease are reported by state health departments every year. This number, however, does not reflect every case of Lyme disease in the US. More recent estimates believe that number may be closer to three hundred thousand [1].
Lyme disease cases in the United States have tripled over the last twenty years. Today, it is the most commonly reported vector-borne disease in the Northern Hemisphere. The reason for this is because tick populations have increased dramatically. In the last two decades, they have doubled their established range [2].
Of course, finding an effective treatment for Lyme Disease is of paramount importance. What is perhaps just as important is figuring out how we can prevent it in the first place. One way to do this, of course, is to control the tick population.
But how can we keep the number of ticks at a manageable level? There may be an unlikely hero in the battle against Lyme Disease: opossums. Not only do these humble animals help control tick populations, but there are also many other opossum benefits. While the exact degree they have on the spread of the disease has not been determined, it’s safe to say they’re (at the very least) lending a helping hand.
The Opossum- The Tick Slayer?
In March 2016, an image of an opossum began circulating on the internet with the following text:
“While many woodland creatures harbor ticks and spread Lyme disease, opossums kill 96.5% of ticks that land on them and a single opossum may be “hoovering up and killing” 4000 ticks every week and thereby protecting us from Lyme disease” [3].
But is this true? As this photo gained more traction, many people began to express skepticism. It seemed too good to be true that one animal could single-handedly save us from Lyme disease.
In 2014, the Cary Institute of Ecosystems Studies and NewsTimes published an article outlining the role opossums play in tick control. Researchers tested the following six species:
White-footed mice
Chipmunks
Squirrels
Opossums
Veeries
Catbirds
They then exposed each species to one hundred ticks. Of the six, they found that opossums were remarkably good at getting rid of ticks. Opossums groom themselves frequently and thoroughly. If they find a tick, they lick it off and swallow it.
The team determined that in one season, a single opossum kills approximately five thousand ticks. So while the text in the photo got the numbers wrong, the idea that an opossum kills ticks is true [4]
These findings were consistent with another study from 2009. This study also found that opossums kill eighty to ninety percent of the ticks that attempt to feed on them. This study pointed out that a loss of biodiversity (ie- removing certain animals from an environment) can cause an increase in insects like ticks, which are vectors for human disease [5].
Read: Asian Lady Beetles: Where They Came From and How to Get Rid of Them
Three Other Opossum Benefits
Opossums do more than kill ticks. It turns out America’s only marsupial is quite a helpful little creature:
1. They Take Care of Unwanted Pests
Opossums eat more than just ticks. They also frequently eat cockroaches, rats and mice. This is helpful to us because those creatures can be carriers of disease [6].
2. They Help Keep Your Garden Healthy
Opossums also like to eat snails and slugs, which can damage your plants and garden. They will also often eat overripe fruits or berries that have fallen to the ground, which keeps your garden nice and clean [6].
3. They Reduce the Snake Population
Opossums are resistant to snake venom, and so they can eat them, too. In some areas, like in Illinois, opossums prey on southern and northern copperheads and the timber rattlesnake. This can help to control the snake population, making you less likely to have a run-in with one [6].
They Aren’t Dangerous
The best part is that opossums don’t pose any threat to humans. Because of their naturally low body temperature, it is difficult for the rabies virus to replicate in an opossum’s body. This means that they are unlikely to get the disease and spread it to humans [6].
Laura Simon, a wildlife ecologist with the U.S. Humane Society says that people can be so hard on opossums. They are not particularly cute creatures, and they drool and hiss when they feel threatened. People see this and think the animal is rabid.
“I tell people `We can’t all be beautiful,’ “ she said [4].
So what can you do to protect opossums? First of all, if you see one playing dead on the road, try to drive around it. If you find a sick, injured, or orphaned opossum, contact your local wildlife organization. They can send people who are able to help the animal.
Humans often fear wildlife, believing that wild animals pose a threat to people. While this is sometimes the case, every animal plays a role in the ecosystem. It is important that we protect biodiversity in order to keep species in balance. Doing this will protect the environment, and protect us, too.
Keep Reading: Tick Control: How a Flock of Chickens May Be Your Best Bet
Sources


theheartysoul--2020-09-24--Nonprofit Organization Built Homeless Veterans Village of Tiny Homes Instead Of Leaving Them Homeles

Nonprofit Organization Built Homeless Veterans Village of Tiny Homes Instead Of Leaving Them Homeless

In a country that appears to take so much pride in their war veterans , a shocking number of those men and women find themselves homeless when their service is done .
This non-profit organization has built a village of tiny homes for homeless veterans to help them get back on their feet .
According to the Department of Housing and Human Development , there are more than 37,000 homeless American veterans in the country ( 1 ) .
The Veteran ’ s Community Project ( VCP ) in Kansas City , Missouri has set out to ensure that “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the past .
( 1 ) The VCP has built a village of tiny homes for the homeless veterans in their community .
These homes are transitional homes paired with a community center to help these war heroes get back on their feet again .
( 1 ) Meyer is a US Marine veteran and was deployed twice in Iraq .
He co-founded the VCP in 2016 with fellow veterans Mark Solomon , Brandon Mixon , and Vincent Morales .
( 1 ) Advertisement Protecting Those Who Protected the Country The four men @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the homeless veterans in Kansas City to find their reasons for living on the street instead of at a shelter or other transitional living facility .
( 1 ) They found that many veterans felt these places were lacking in ( 1 ) : • The ability to rebuild at their own pace From there they set out to build a village of transitional homes that provided these men and women with everything they felt their other options lacked .
( 1 ) Completed in 2019 , the first VCP village in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 49 tiny homes on it .
The homes range in size from 240 to 320 square feet and somewhat resemble the military barracks the veterans are used to living in .
VCP purchased that land for just $ 500 .
( 1 ) Included in the village is a 5,000 square foot community center to help each veteran get back on their feet .
( 1 ) Services include ( 1 ) : The VCP also has an outreach center that provides walk-in support for other local veterans .
( 1 ) Since @ @ @ @ @ @ @ veterans young and old – from 24 years old to 84 years old .
Currently , the typical length of stay is less than one year , at around 275 days .
( 1 ) Read : Finland Ends Homelessness and Provides Shelter For All in Need .
Donations form 100 % of the VCP ’ s funding .
Without local community partnerships and the help of volunteers , they would not be able to function .
( 1 ) Seeing how successful the KC village has been , hundreds of cities across @ @ @ @ @ @ @ build a village in their community .
They are expanding and are building their next village in Longmont , Colorodo .
( 1 ) From there they plan to build villages in ( 1 ) : Meyer makes it clear that they are not coming in to compete with the VA or anyone else .
They want to establish relationships with the VA in each city and fill in the gaps so that veterans are getting the help that they need .
( 1 ) Advertisement Veteran Kyle Prellberg , a former military @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when a rocket-propelled grenade hit his truck while on duty in Afghanistan .
Since then , he has dealt with PTSD , depression , anxiety , and panic attacks .
( 1 ) Couch surfing since he was relieved from duty , he received the purple heart award in 2019 .
It was at a dinner with other wounded veterans where Prellberg heard about the VCP .
( 1 ) Since moving to the VCP community , he has become a leader there , helping other veterans when they first move in .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to call his own was a huge boost .
( 1 ) How You Can Help If you don ’ t have a VCP village to volunteer in , you can donate to the organization .
Check out the “ Get Involved ” section on their website for more ways that you can help this organization succeed .
Keep Reading : First Tiny Home Community for the Homeless Opens In San Jose , California

In a country that appears to take so much pride in its war veterans, a shocking number of those men and women find themselves homeless when their service is done. This non-profit organization has built a village of tiny homes for homeless veterans to help them get back on their feet.
Tiny Homes for the Homeless Veterans
According to the Department of Housing and Human Development, there are more than 37,000 homeless American veterans in the country (1). The Veteran’s Community Project (VCP) in Kansas City, Missouri, has set out to ensure that “homeless veteran” becomes a thing of the past. (1)
The VCP has built a village of tiny homes for the homeless veterans in their community. These homes are transitional homes paired with a community center to help these war heroes get back on their feet again. (1)
“I think veteran homelessness has always been viewed as a federal issue or a VA [Department of Veterans Affairs] issue, that it’s not something a local community can take on and address,” said Byran Meyer, CEO, and co-founder of the VCP. “These veterans are sleeping in city parks and streets. They’re our neighbors and brothers and sisters of our community. We can do something without waiting for somebody else to come in and fix this.” (1)
Meyer is a US Marine veteran and was deployed twice in Iraq. He co-founded the VCP in 2016 with fellow veterans Mark Solomon, Brandon Mixon, and Vincent Morales. (1)
Protecting Those Who Protected the Country
The four men went out into their community. They spoke with the homeless veterans in Kansas City to find their reasons for living on the street instead of at a shelter or other transitional living facility. (1) They found that many veterans felt these places were lacking in (1):
Privacy
A sense of security
The ability to rebuild at their own pace
From there, they set out to build a village of transitional homes that provided these men and women with everything they felt their other options lacked. (1)
The First VCP Village
Completed in 2019, the first VCP village in KC is on five acres of land with 49 tiny homes. The homes range in size from 240 to 320 square feet and somewhat resemble the military barracks the veterans are used to living in. VCP purchased that land for just $500. (1)
“There’s this huge sense of belonging because you have a population of people that all have a shared experience in terms of military service, and it gives them this instantaneous bond,” Meyer said. “You see them really develop and make friendships and hang out with each other.” (1)
Included in the village is a 5,000 square foot community center to help each veteran get back on their feet. (1) Services include (1):
Mentoring
Case management
Counseling
Medical facility
Dental facility
Veterinary clinic
Training and commercial kitchen
The VCP also has an outreach center that provides walk-in support for other local veterans. (1)
Since the village opened, they have helped veterans young and old – from 24 to 84 years old. Currently, the typical length of stay is less than one year, at around 275 days. (1)
Funded By Donations
Donations form 100% of the VCP’s funding. Without local community partnerships and the help of volunteers, they would not be able to function. (1)
“We have more volunteers sometimes than I even know how to keep engaged because everybody wants to help,” Meyer said. “The volunteer labor isn’t just about cutting costs. It’s also about the community feeling like they own the projects too.” (1)
Seeing how prosperous the KC village has been, hundreds of cities across America have contacted VCP who want to build a village in their community. They are expanding and are making their next village in Longmont, Colorado. (1) From there, they plan to build villages in (1):
Cincinnati, St. Louis
Orlando, Florida
Meyer makes it clear that they are not coming in to compete with the VA or anyone else. They want to establish relationships with the VA in each city and fill in the gaps so that veterans are getting the help that they need. (1)
A Success Story
Veteran Kyle Prellberg, a former military sniper, suffered a severe leg injury when a rocket-propelled grenade hit his truck while on duty in Afghanistan. Since then, he has dealt with PTSD, depression, anxiety, and panic attacks. (1)
Couch surfing since he was relieved from duty, he received the purple heart award in 2019. It was at a dinner with other wounded veterans where Prellberg heard about the VCP. (1)
Since moving to the VCP community, he has become a leader there, helping other veterans when they first move in. Kyle says that simply having a space to call his own was a huge boost. (1)
“I went from a place where I was couch surfing,” he said. “And to have a place that’s your own is just enormously helpful.” (1)
How You Can Help
If you don’t have a VCP village to volunteer in, you can donate to the organization. Check out the “Get Involved” section on their website for more ways that you can help this organization succeed.
Keep Reading: German City Installs Pods For Homeless People To Sleep In
References


theheartysoul--2020-09-24--10 Stretches to Relax Your Spine After a Hard Day

Back problems are one of the most common pains that people experience around the world .
Especially with our increasingly sedentary lifestyles , our bodies become stiff , tight , and gradually over time , immobile .
These are nine of the best back & spine stretches to help relieve lower back tightness and improve your overall mobility .
Just because your lower back isn ’ t in pain , doesn ’ t mean that it isn ’ t tight .
Over time , I tight back can worsen , however , and will eventually cause you pain and restrict @ @ @ @ @ @ @ After a while , even everyday movements like picking something up off of the floor can become difficult .
( 1 ) TIghtness in the lower back can feel like a variety of things ( 1 ) : Often this is accompanied by tightness in your pelvis , hips , and legs .
If your back is feeling this way after a workout , it could very likely be from the workout .
Workout-related tightness and soreness can take anywhere from a couple of hours to a couple of days to subside .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ experiencing sharp pains post-workout , however , this could be a sign that you have done something to your back and you should go see your doctor or physical therapist .
( 1 ) Frequent exercise , such as walking , swimming , and yoga , is one of the best things you can do for your back and your whole body .
Our bodies were meant to move , so the more often you do so , the better off you will be .
( 1 ) Of course with many of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sit all day long .
Combine that with time spent sitting in transit , sitting for meals , and sitting for leisure time , that ’ s a lot of hours spent seated in a chair .
It takes more than one hour of exercise each day to correct for that .
( 1 ) These are nine back & spine stretches that you can do anytime , anywhere to help improve the mobility of your lower back .
( 1 ) This is a nice , easy warm-up stretch that gently gets @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you to loosen up both your lower back and your hip muscles as well as engage your abdominal and glute muscles .
( 1 ) • Stand tall with your hands on your hips and your feet just a bit wider than your hips .
• Gently move your hips from side to side .
• Slowly start moving your hips in a circle in one direction .
• Do several rotations that direction before switching and repeating going the opposite .
This common yoga pose is excellent both for warming up , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tight muscles around it .
( 1 ) • Come down to the floor on all-fours , with your hands stacked beneath your shoulders and knees beneath your hips .
Your weight should be distributed evenly between all four points .
• Take a slow breath in as you drop your belly towards the floor and your head and bum towards the ceiling .
• Exhale slowly as you reverse the position , dropping your head down and arching your back upwards , keeping your shoulders away from your ears .
• Continue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in time with your breathing .
This exercise engages your glutes and strengthens your lower back .
It also helps to increase your mobility in those areas .
( 1 ) • Come down on your back with your knees bent and heels underneath your knees .
Extend your arms out to your sides .
• Squeeze your lower core muscles to push your lower back into the floor .
• Repeat 3 or 4 times , gradually adding one repetition each time until you can do 10 .
This will help to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as tight glutes .
( 1 ) • Lie on your back with both legs extended .
• Pull one knee into your chest with your hands around your shin , not your knee .
• Hold this for five seconds , then release your leg slowly back down .
• Repeat four or five times on each side .
• Pull both knees into our chest and hold for 30 seconds , holding again at your shins .
Lower back tightness can often be either caused by or exacerbated by tight hamstrings @ @ @ @ @ @ @ back and regains length in the hamstrings .
( 1 ) • Lie on your back with both legs extended .
• Lift up one leg as straight as you can while still maintaining a slight bend in the knee .
If you prefer you can bend your opposite knee and push that heel into the ground for support .
• Using either your hands , a towel , or a band , hold your leg behind your thigh just below the knee ( not behind the knee ) .
• Hold this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ leg , repeating two or three times per side .
This movement stretches out the sides of your glutes and relieves tension in your lower back .
( 1 ) • Lie on your back with your arms extended out from your body .
Bend and lift your knees in the air so that they are stacked above your hips .
• Breathe out slowly as you gently drop your knees to the right and turn your head to look left .
• Inhale to come back to the center before you exhale @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the left , again turning your head in the opposite direction .
• Repeat for one minute or for 5 to 10 repetitions per side .
This is another excellent hamstring stretch that also allows you to relax your other muscles while moving through it .
( 1 ) • Come to a seated position with one side of your body against the wall .
• Lie down on your back and gently swing your legs up along the wall .
You may need to adjust your bum to be closer or further @ @ @ @ @ @ @ your flexibility .
You also may want something soft underneath your hips .
• With your arms in whatever position is comfortable , relax your lower back and allow the wall to stretch out your hamstrings .
You may wish to gently bend and straighten your knees to work your way into the stretch .
• Stay here for one or two minutes , breathing calmly throughout .
Read : 10 Core Exercises That Are Important for Every Woman Used often in yoga as a resting position , this pose is fantastic for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ body .
( 1 ) • Start in the tabletop position , then sit back on your heels with your knees pointed slightly apart .
• Fold forward at the waist and place your forehead on the floor .
You can stretch your arms out in front of you , actively pressing your hands into the floor like you are pushing back on your body , or you can extend your arms out behind you for a more relaxed pose .
• Allow your body to completely relax , allowing all the tension @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or two minutes .
This is the ultimate relaxation pose to finish off your stretching sequence .
The goal of this position is to completely relax every muscle in your body .
( 1 ) • Lie on your back with your legs extended outward and your arms alongside your body .
Your palms can either be facing up toward the sky or down onto the floor .
• Place your feet slightly wider than your hips .
• Breathe slowly and deeply , allowing your body to relax : Toes , feet @ @ @ @ @ @ @ chest , arms , hands , neck , and face .
• Hold this for 10 to 20 minutes or for however long you are comfortable .
• When you are ready to come out of the position , start by slowly wiggling your fingers and toes .
Introduce small movement to each part of the body .
When you are ready , fold your knees up towards your chest and roll onto your right or left side .
From there , use your hands to bring yourself back up into the seated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there .
This is the perfect stretch you can do at any point during the day while sitting at your desk .
• Sitting upright in your chair , exhale and gently twist your torso to one side , grabbing hold of the back of the chair for assistance .
• Continue breathing , attempting to gently twist a bit further with each exhale .
• Hold for five breaths then return to center .
• Repeat on the other side .
There are many reasons why you may be experiencing lower back @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mobility exercises don ’ t help , go see your doctor or physical therapist .
They will be able to help you determine whether or not there is a deeper issue going on causing your problems .
Keep Reading : 7 Exercises to Help Prevent Spider and Varicose Veins

Have you considered trying yoga stretches for sciatica pain relief? If you’re suffering from the pain of sciatica, like I have intermittently for years, you know just how much it can hold up your daily life and prevent you from doing the things you love. You may be able to find relief with this yoga for sciatica routine.
Let’s start with what the sciatic nerve actually is. The sciatic nerve is the longest nerve in the human body, starting at the spine base and running right down through your thigh and calf muscles to your foot.
The average person has about a 40% chance of experiencing some sciatica pain throughout their lives. It might not be a chronic pain, but you could have trouble with it. Sometimes it’s as simple as tingling in your legs or weakness in your knees.
What is sciatica?
According to the Mayo Clinic:
Sciatica refers to pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, which branches from your lower back through your hips and buttocks and down each leg. Typically, sciatica affects only one side of your body.
Symptoms Of Sciatica
Pain anywhere along the sciatic nerve in the lower back, buttock, back of the thigh, and/or calf.
Fatigue, numbness, or loss of feeling in your legs and/or feet.
An electric, tingling, burning, pinching, or pins-and-needles feeling
Weakness that can cause your knees to buckle when you stand up from sitting.
Foot drop: a condition in which you are not able to flex your ankles enough to walk on your heels.
Reduced reflexes in your Achilles tendon and knee.
What Causes Sciatica Pain?
Sciatica pain can be caused by herniation in your lumbar spine – this is the part of your spine that curves inward, near your lower-middle back. This is serious and you should consult a doctor about this immediately. However, nearly 70 percent of sciatica cases are caused by piriformis syndrome. The piriformis is a small muscle located deep in the buttock (behind the gluteus maximus) that can affect the adjacent sciatic nerve when it there is a muscle spasm or strain, tightening or swelling.
Yoga For Sciatica
Before you begin using yoga for sciatica pain, consult with your healthcare professional to design an appropriate exercise routine. If you experience any pain or difficulty with these exercises, stop and consult your healthcare provider.
If you’ve had the pleasure of taking a yoga class, you know how beneficial it can be for relieving almost any kind of back pain. In the case of sciatica pain specifically, yoga time and again has proven to provide that relief. However, on those days when you’re really feeling the pain of a pinched sciatic nerve, the last thing you want to do is get dressed, hop in a car, drive to a yoga studio, get your much-needed relief, and then have to drive all the way home again.
Thanks to the Internet, however, more and more yoga teachers are recognizing the need to provide classes online. You can now can get the same value for less than half the cost of an average yoga class in the comfort of your living room.
In addition taking online yoga classes for back pain, below are some of the best poses that the Yoga Download team recommend trying in the meantime.
The Standing Back Twist
This is a great pose for people who aren’t bendy enough to start with some of these other poses. Put your foot up on a chair, and place the outside of your opposite hand on your raised knee (left hand to the right knee or right hand to left knee). Place your other hand on your hip. Turning your upper body while keeping your hips facing forward hold the position for thirty seconds, then switch. Don’t push past where your comfortable.
The Knee Raise
Lying on your back draw one knee to your chest, keeping the other leg straight. Push down with your knee and pull up with your hands. Keep your shoulders on the floor.
The Two Knee Twist
Lie on your back. Splay your arms to form a capital “T.” Keeping your shoulders on the floor, turn your knees out to one side. Keep your shoulders on the floor. Hold the position for a minute, then alternate sides.
The Single Knee Twist
Lie on your back. Keeping one leg straight, bend one knee to a 90° angle, place the opposite hand on that knee. Turn to face the arm still on the floor. Keep both shoulders on the floor.
The Twisted Lunge
This is a trickier pose but really opens your hips. Step one leg forward, bend at the knee. The other leg should stay out behind you. Try to keep your feet one leg’s length apart. Turning your back, place your opposite elbow on the outside your bent knee. Bring your palms together. Hold for thirty seconds.
The Seated Twist
Sit with your legs straight in front of you. Bend on the leg at the knee and place it on the outside of the other knee. You can keep the leg straight or curl it up, whichever is comfier. Put one hand flat on the floor behind you, place your opposite elbow on the outside of your bent knee. Turn to face behind you, keeping your legs pointing forward.
The Cat Pose
Super easy. Get on your hands and knees. Bend your back down and lift your chest by pulling your shoulders back. Breathe and hold for ten seconds. Return to a flat back, then tuck your chin into your chest and raise your back. Hold for ten seconds and release. Do this for a minute or two.
Child’s Pose
The easiest yoga for sciatica pose on this list. Get down on your hands and knees, then rock your seat back onto your heels, leaving your hands on the floor in front of you. Hold for as long as you like. Don’t fall asleep like this, your legs won’t forgive you.
We hope this yoga for sciatica routine helps you bring your sciatic nerve pain under control and get your life back on track!
Keep Reading: Bad Morning Habits We Should Stop Doing


theheartysoul--2020-09-24--Boy, 3, with terminal brain cancer enjoys ‘best Xmas ever’ three months early

Terminal brain cancer is devastating news at any age , but especially when it ’ s a child .
At just three years old , Ellis Price ’ s diagnosis meant that he will not make it to this Christmas .
Not wanting him to miss out , his parents gave him the one thing he wanted most three months early : The best Christmas Ever .
Last Year in September 2019 , little Ellis Price was diagnosed with a brain tumor .
He had two major operations while simultaneously going through chemotherapy .
( 2 ) Ellis was able @ @ @ @ @ @ @ however , complications from one treatment left him paralyzed .
His parents According to his parents Laura and Ashley , Ellis is a true fighter and never let this get him down .
( 2 ) Unfortunately , his condition continued to deteriorate , and in July the the family was told that no further treatment could save their son .
( 2 ) Advertisement They moved up his birthday , with a hospital bedside birthday party .
Knowing that he may not make it to Christmas , his parents also decided to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that they could three months early .
( 1 ) The Best Christmas Ever The party included elves , ponies dressed as reindeer , a snow machine to cover the area in fake snow , and of course a visit from Santa .
( 1 ) They ate a full Christmas dinner and watched holiday movies in a tent in the garden .
( 1 ) Messages from Across the Country While in treatment , Ellis made friends with another little boy who suffered from the same condition , Reuben Robb .
Reuben @ @ @ @ @ @ @ asking for people to send Ellis Christmas cards .
( 2 ) The post reads : “ This beautiful lady ( Laura Pearman ) and her beautiful precious boy are spending their last days together as Ellis ’ s condition has become much worse and he has very little time left .
“ You are all aware how we first hand know the pain this amazing lady had to endure .
Laura Pearman has decided to have Christmas Day for Ellis next week as it will be her last .
She has very @ @ @ @ @ @ @ send him a Christmas card to fill a wall or small gift this would be absolutely wonderful .
Please if you can help we are so very thankful .
Ellis also has two older sister ’ s and think it ’ s very important to involve her in his memory .
Thank you in advance .
On his special Christmas day , Ellis received letters from people all over the UK wishing him a happy Christmas.
” ( 2 ) The response was incredible , and Ellis even received video messages from some @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his favorite soccer team .
( 2 ) His parents are very happy that they were able to give Ellis the best early Christmas that they possibly could have , and are thankful for the support and love they ’ ve been shown by complete strangers .
Keep Reading : A Daughter Wrote a Message of Hope in the Snow for Her Mother Who ’ s Battling Cancer

Terminal brain cancer is devastating news at any age, but especially when it’s a child. At just three years old, Ellis Price’s diagnosis meant that he will not make it to this Christmas. Not wanting him to miss out, his parents gave him the one thing he wanted most three months early: The best Christmas Ever.
A Terrible Diagnosis
Last Year in September 2019, little Ellis Price was diagnosed with a brain tumor. He had two major operations while simultaneously going through chemotherapy. (2)
Ellis was able to return home after each procedure, however, complications from one treatment left him paralyzed. His parents According to his parents Laura and Ashley, Ellis is a true fighter and never let this get him down. (2)
“He wanted to be independent. He got himself up and down – he would never give up.” Laura said. “To see him struggle through what he has been through – all whilst remaining positive – it is inspiring to all of us.” (2)
Unfortunately, his condition continued to deteriorate, and in July the the family was told that no further treatment could save their son. (2)
They moved up his birthday, with a hospital bedside birthday party. Knowing that he may not make it to Christmas, his parents also decided to throw him the most amazing Christmas party that they could three months early. (1)
The Best Christmas Ever
The party included elves, ponies dressed as reindeer, a snow machine to cover the area in fake snow, and of course a visit from Santa. (1)
They ate a full Christmas dinner and watched holiday movies in a tent in the garden. (1)
“This is Ellis’ last Christmas so we’ve rolled a lifetime of celebrations into one.” said Laura. (1)
Messages from Across the Country
While in treatment, Ellis made friends with another little boy who suffered from the same condition, Reuben Robb. Reuben’s mother Elizabeth posted on Facebook asking for people to send Ellis Christmas cards. (2) The post reads:
“This beautiful lady (Laura Pearman) and her beautiful precious boy are spending their last days together as Ellis’s condition has become much worse and he has very little time left.
“You are all aware how we first hand know the pain this amazing lady had to endure. Laura Pearman has decided to have Christmas Day for Ellis next week as it will be her last. She has very kindly asked if anyone would like to send him a Christmas card to fill a wall or small gift this would be absolutely wonderful. Please if you can help we are so very thankful. Ellis also has two older sister’s and think it’s very important to involve her in his memory. Thank you in advance. On his special Christmas day, Ellis received letters from people all over the UK wishing him a happy Christmas.” (2)
The response was incredible, and Ellis even received video messages from some of the players from Leeds United, his favorite soccer team. (2)
“So many people have come forward. It shows how good people can really be.” said Ashley. (1)
His parents are very happy that they were able to give Ellis the best early Christmas that they possibly could have, and are thankful for the support and love they’ve been shown by complete strangers.


theheartysoul--2020-09-24--Storm Francis Reveals an Ancient Underground Forest That Was Hidden for Thousands of Years

There are not many happy results from dangerous weather .
However , this one is downright mesmerizing .
As Storm Francis raged across the United Kingdom , the rain and winds revealed a petrified Welsh woodland area .
A forest that has been hiding underwater for thousands of years .
Its photos are like something out of a fairy tale .
This underwater forest consists of oak , birch , pine , and alder trees .
It ’ s believed to have stopped growing around 4,500 to 6,000 years ago as sea levels rose and suffocated the trees .
Yet @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the sand and a high level of alkaline preserved the wood almost perfectly .
The woodland stretches about two to three miles between the villages of Borth and Ynyslas .
Dr. Hywel Griffiths photographed the forest and described the forest as “ both exciting and worrying ” .
He is part of a research project examining coastal environmental change .
The stumps are growing in a three-foot-thick layer of dried peat .
Researchers had tried to take samples of the dirt under the forest , the sand on it prevents the core drills @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Forest was Revealed The researchers found a sign of habitation near the forest : a walkway built from sticks .
It could ’ ve sheilded passers-by from the rising sea levels .
This isn ’ t the first time this mystical forest appeared .
It ’ s a little like the myth of the giant sea turtle with an island on its back that appears mysteriously at random times in different places .
Well , the forest doesn ’ t move but it had appeared in May 2014 and in 2019 after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sunken Kingdom of Wales With all of its eerie whimsicality , it ’ s no wonder many people connect this forest to the mythical Sunken Kingdom of Wales , also known as Cantre ’ r Gwaelod or the Lowland Hundred .
One expects to see a long-haired , barefooted sorceress walking among the trees with a glowing staff .
Cantre ’ r Gwaelod was first mentioned in the Black Book of Carmarthen , one of the earliest surviving Welsh manuscripts written around 1250 A.D .
According to legend , water flooded the kingdom @ @ @ @ @ @ @ well to overflow .
In an alternate version , a lord called Gwyddno Garanhir ruled Cantre ’ r Gwaelod and protected a seawall called Sarn Badrig and multiple sluice gates .
Two princes oversaw the gates , one of them a drunkard called Seithenyn .
One night , he forgot to close the gates , causing the kingdom to flood .
[ 3 ] Nowadays , San Badrig is the name of a reef created from the remnants of a glacial moraine .
Unfortunately , there is no evidence of physical habitation where @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be , especially not one of a magical kingdom .
Still , in the land where many folk tales originated , lack of evidence won ’ t stop the spreading of these legends .
Keep Reading : The Beauty of Opalized Petrified Wood

There are not many happy results from dangerous weather. However, this one is downright mesmerizing. As Storm Francis raged across the United Kingdom, the rain and winds revealed a petrified Welsh woodland area. A forest that has been hiding underwater for thousands of years. Its photos are like something out of a fairy tale.
Revealing a Stunning Ancient Underwater Forest
This underwater forest consists of oak, birch, pine, and alder trees. It’s believed to have stopped growing around 4,500 to 6,000 years ago as sea levels rose and suffocated the trees. Yet climate change helped the trees emerge from the sand and a high level of alkaline preserved the wood almost perfectly. The woodland stretches about two to three miles between the villages of Borth and Ynyslas.
Dr. Hywel Griffiths photographed the forest and described the forest as “both exciting and worrying”. He is part of a research project examining coastal environmental change.
“It’s exciting because it’s additional evidence of these climate change processes that have been going on for so long,” he said. “But also worrying because we are seeing these landscape changes occur more often. It’s due to the impact and influence of the storms that feel like they are happening more.” [1]
The stumps are growing in a three-foot-thick layer of dried peat. Researchers had tried to take samples of the dirt under the forest, the sand on it prevents the core drills from being effective.
Historian Gerald Morgan commented, “It’s an addition to what we already know about the extraordinary number of petrified trees that have been found all along the coast of Wales. It’s exciting because we have found another one that hasn’t been recorded yet.”
Read: Fulgurites: Magical Stones Formed When Lightning Hits the Ground
Other Times the Forest was Revealed
The researchers found a sign of habitation near the forest: a walkway built from sticks. It could’ve sheilded passers-by from the rising sea levels.
“The site around Borth is one where if there is a bad storm and it gets battered, you know there’s a good chance something will be uncovered,” says one of the people who helped discover the site, Deanna Groom, Maritime Officer of the Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Wales.
This isn’t the first time this mystical forest appeared. It’s a little like the myth of the giant sea turtle with an island on its back that appears mysteriously at random times in different places. Well, the forest doesn’t move but it had appeared in May 2014 and in 2019 after intense storms.
“The remains of the forest’s tree stumps are well preserved, having been exposed by the storm moving vast quantities of stones, revealing the subsoil, peat, and tree stumps,” said Charles Green, a member of the Ceredigion Historical Society, after visiting the forest. “Could the land and myth extend as far south as Llanrhystud?” [2]
The Legend of the Sunken Kingdom of Wales
With all of its eerie whimsicality, it’s no wonder many people connect this forest to the mythical Sunken Kingdom of Wales, also known as Cantre’r Gwaelod or the Lowland Hundred. One expects to see a long-haired, barefooted sorceress walking among the trees with a glowing staff.
Cantre’r Gwaelod was first mentioned in the Black Book of Carmarthen, one of the earliest surviving Welsh manuscripts written around 1250 A.D. According to legend, water flooded the kingdom when a maiden named Mererid allowed her well to overflow. In an alternate version, a lord called Gwyddno Garanhir ruled Cantre’r Gwaelod and protected a seawall called Sarn Badrig and multiple sluice gates. Two princes oversaw the gates, one of them a drunkard called Seithenyn. One night, he forgot to close the gates, causing the kingdom to flood. [3]
Nowadays, San Badrig is the name of a reef created from the remnants of a glacial moraine.
Unfortunately, there is no evidence of physical habitation where Cantre’r Gwaelod was rumored to be, especially not one of a magical kingdom. Still, in the land where many folk tales originated, lack of evidence won’t stop the spreading of these legends.
Keep Reading: The Beauty of Opalized Petrified Wood


theheartysoul--2020-09-24--Screen Your Vision With These 9 Visual Tricks: Can You Really See As Well As You Think?

Optical illusions occur when your brain simply doesn ’ t believe your eyes , or perhaps it can ’ t decode the information coming from the optical nerve .
In simpler terms , the eyes are using color , light , and patterns to fool the brain , leading it to make quick and unconscious inferences [ 1 ] .
You could see two lines that look obviously unequal in length , but upon closer inspection or measurement , you ’ d find theta they are both 5 cm in length .
Optical illusions serve tons of purposes .
Some @ @ @ @ @ @ @ development .
Others may help to identify certain eye defects such as myopia , color blindness , presbyopia , and astigmatism .
Medical conclusions obtained using these illusions must be confirmed by an ophthalmologist .
I personally love to try them out as unofficial IQ tests .
Optical illusions are used to screen brain power and a person ’ s critical thinking ability .
Images that create the illusion of movement in the eyes could be used in medical hypnotherapy ( please do not hypnotize a person without their full consent ) [ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ test of 9 tricks specially designed to screen your vision and critical reasoning ability .
Take time to play the game and receive your score and evaluation .
You may then read up on the rest of the article for explanations on the correct answers.Advertisement At first sight , line 2 appears to be longer .
This is because the lines have been slightly angled to form the illusion of an infinite railroad .
Of course , the gaps closer to the eye should be wider than the ones farther away .
They @ @ @ @ @ @ @ while line two completely swallows its own gaps .
The brain has been immediately tricked to assume that line two is longer .
This trick gauges your critical thinking ability .
You must take notice of the inclination of the rails before you can conclude that the lines actually HAVE THE SAME LENGTH .
They do not seem straight at first sight .
You could develop a headache trying to decipher which line is straight and which one isn ’ t .
The pink and gray boxes and positioned in a haphazard and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ since they dominate the picture fully , they ’ ll create the illusion of curved winding lines to accommodate their positions .
Look close at both edges of the picture and trace the lines from these points .
There are all PERFECT STRAIGHT LINES .
Trick 3 had nine boxes matrixed together and only one had a lighter shade than the others .
A color-blind person may experience difficulty in identifying a different color .
Eye conditions such as refractive errors and cataracts may cloud the eye and blur the colors , making @ @ @ @ @ @ @ color .
Check with an eye doctor if your eyes were too cloudy or blurry to notice the tinted one .
On the other hand , we could be wrong because we were too quick to scan the boxes and our brains missed the difference .
The FIRST ONE is different .
Trick 4 has the same motivation as trick 3 , only that the colors are lighter and it would be much harder to identify the different shade .
Counting from left to right , the SEVENTH ONE is different .
It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ initially track the wrong pattern and discover a different number .
The red , pink , and brown circles form an outline of the NUMBER TWO , but a color blind person wouldn ’ t be able to decipher this .
The red circles would appear in a dull green shade.Advertisement This trick is perfect for diagnosing red-green color blindness .
Technically termed color vision deficiency , this X-chromosome linked condition is much more common in males than females .
8 % of men 0.5 % of women of Northern European background have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 6 is similar to trick 5 .
The background colors are much lighter on this one , and it makes it easier to decipher the outline of the NUMBER 8 .
This one is actually pretty tricky .
You ’ d have to squint very slightly to see the number engraved in the background .
A person with a refractive error such as astigmatism may not be able to identify this .
Astigmatism occurs when the cornea is irregularly shaped and is struck abnormally by light , resulting in blurry vision .
Check @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have this issue .
I had to look about five times before I discovered that there ’ s actually a DOG in the center of the picture and not just a fuzzy-haired stuffed animal .
The dog looks so much like the toys that it ’ s hard to actually imagine it ’ s a real creature and not a stuffed animal .
This one wants you to identify the shade of purple that is highlighted in the red crosshair .
The first 4 shades are obviously not a match , but The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
It ’ s a tricky one as well , but try to block out all the other elements of the picture and compare each shade to the desired section .
Which shade it the best match ?
The Second last shade on the right is the match .
If you have ultra-laser vision , it means you answered them all correctly .
Give yourself a pat on the back .
If you experienced great difficulty with this test and you haven ’ t been diagnosed with an eye condition , we ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be a good idea to see an optometrist or ophthalmologist .
Be sure to try the game when you are well-rested and not suffering from any headaches or migraines .
Keep Reading : A scientific study claims that your age affects how you see this famous optical illusion

How good is your vision? Can you master these illusions? Optical illusions occur when your brain simply doesn’t believe your eyes, or perhaps it can’t decode the information coming from the optical nerve. In simpler terms, the eyes use color, light, and patterns to fool the brain, leading it to make quick and unconscious inferences [1]. You could see two lines that look obviously unequal in length, but upon closer inspection or measurement, you’d find that they are both 5 cm in length.
Optical illusions serve tons of purposes. Some are just brain teasers for fun and brain development. Others may help to identify certain eye defects such as myopia, color blindness, presbyopia, and astigmatism. Medical conclusions obtained using these illusions must be confirmed by an ophthalmologist.
I personally love to try them out as unofficial IQ tests. Optical illusions are used to screen brain power and a person’s critical thinking ability. Images that create the illusion of movement in the eyes could be used in medical hypnotherapy (please do not hypnotize a person without their full consent) [2].
Below is an interesting list of eight tricks that can serve as an unofficial test for your vision and critical reasoning ability. Take time to play the game and receive your score and evaluation. You may then read up on the rest of the article for explanations on the correct answers.
1.
At first sight, line 2 appears to be longer. This is because the lines have been slightly angled to form the illusion of an infinite railroad. Of course, the gaps closer to the eye should be wider than the ones farther away. They seem to swallow line 1 up, while line two completely swallows its own gaps.
The brain has been immediately tricked to assume that line two is longer. This trick gauges your critical thinking ability. You must take notice of the inclination of the rails before you can conclude that the lines actually HAVE THE SAME LENGTH.
2.
They do not seem straight at first sight. You could develop a headache trying to decipher which line is straight and which one isn’t. The pink and gray boxes and positioned in a haphazard and disorderly manner between the lines, and since they dominate the picture fully, they’ll create the illusion of curved winding lines to accommodate their positions.
Look close at both edges of the picture and trace the lines from these points. There are all PERFECT STRAIGHT LINES.
3.
Trick 3 has eight boxes matrixed together and only one has a lighter shade than the others. A color-blind person may experience difficulty in identifying a different color. Eye conditions such as refractive errors and cataracts may cloud the eye and blur the colors, making a person unable to identify a different color. Check with an eye doctor if your eyes were too cloudy or blurry to notice the tinted one. On the other hand, we could be wrong because we were too quick to scan the boxes and our brains missed the difference.
Counting from left to right, the SEVENTH ONE is different.
Read: Can You Solve This Tricky Math Riddle? Only Super Smart People Can
4.
It’s easy to let your eyes initially track the wrong pattern and discover a different number. The red, pink, and brown circles form an outline of the NUMBER TWO, but a color blind person wouldn’t be able to decipher this. The red circles would appear in a dull green shade. This trick is perfect for diagnosing red-green color blindness. Technically termed color vision deficiency, this X-chromosome-linked condition is much more common in males than females. 8% of men 0.5% of women of Northern European background have the common red-green color blindness.
5.
Trick 6 is similar to trick 5. The background colors are much lighter on this one, and it makes it easier to decipher the outline of the NUMBER 8.
6.
This one is actually pretty tricky. You’d have to squint very slightly to see the number engraved in the background. A person with a refractive error such as astigmatism may not be able to identify this. Astigmatism occurs when the cornea is irregularly shaped and is struck abnormally by light, resulting in blurry vision. Check with your doctor if you think you have this issue. The number is 571.
7.
I had to look about five times before I discovered that there’s actually a DOG in the center of the picture and not just a fuzzy-haired stuffed animal. The dog looks so much like the toys that it’s hard to actually imagine it’s a real creature and not a stuffed animal.
8.
This one wants you to identify the shade of purple that is highlighted in the red crosshair. The first 4 shades are obviously not a match, but The last two shades are harder to decipher. It’s a tricky one as well, but try to block out all the other elements of the picture and compare each shade to the desired section. Which shade it the best match?
The Second last shade on the right is the match.
If you have ultra-laser vision, it means you answered them all correctly. Give yourself a pat on the back. If you experienced great difficulty with this test and you haven’t been diagnosed with an eye condition, we’re not doctors, but it may be a good idea to see an optometrist or ophthalmologist.
Be sure to try the game when you are well-rested and not suffering from any headaches or migraines. Have fun!
Keep Reading: Is Your Vision Sharp Enough To Spot The Odd One?
Sources


theheartysoul--2020-09-25--World’s first living coffin made of mushroom mycelium gives human nutrients back to nature

Rituals surrounding death are deeply ingrained into our religious and cultural past .
Throughout history , humans have gone to great lengths to preserve those traditions , and in almost every culture there is great ceremony surrounding the passing of a loved one .
In many societies , burying the deceased is the traditional way of handling the passing of a loved one .
This practice , however , has environmental consequences .
Embalming , burial , and cremation release toxic chemicals into the air and soil .
Maintaining memorial plots requires immense amounts of space and water .
One @ @ @ @ @ @ @ just that .
With its new “ living coffin ” , you can ensure that your loved one ’ s body returns nutrients back to nature .
Read : These Organic Burial Pods Will Turn You Into A Tree When You Die Delft researcher Bob Hendrikx , along with his team at the start-up company Loop , have designed the world ’ s first living coffin .
Unlike traditional coffins , which are made from wood , Hendrikx made this new coffin from mushroom mycelium .
This will allow the body to compost @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the soil .
This will enrich the soil in that area , allowing trees and plants to grow [ 2 ] .
AdvertisementMycelium is the underground root system of mushrooms .
The coffin itself is then filled with a bed of moss to stimulate decomposition .
Mycelium also eats toxins and turns them into nutrients .
Hendrikx points to Chernobyl as an example .
Mushrooms were used there to clean up the soil after the nuclear disaster .
The company grows the coffins at the Delft University of Technology by mixing mycelium with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coffin .
They can grow within only one week .
After the mushrooms grow through the wood chips , the coffin has to fry .
When it is complete , it is capable of holding up to two hundred kilograms .
Read : Forget Coffins or Boxes : This Company Swirls You Into Unique Glass Art Creations When You Die Once you have buried the coffin , it will interact with the ground water and dissolve within thirty to 45 days .
The researchers estimate the body will then take only two to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the ten to twenty years it takes with a traditional coffin .
Once the living coffin is in the ground , you can water it , plant seeds , and decide what kind of tree you want to become .
The first funeral using one of Loop ’ s living caskets took place recently in the Netherlands .
The relative was the son of the deceased .
Despite his sadness at losing his mother , he was happy to know that she will return to nature and soon be living like a tree @ @ @ @ @ @ @ conversation.AdvertisementAdvertisement Currently , Loop is working with scientists to measure how human bodies impact soil quality .
Their goal is to convince policy makers to convert polluted areas into forests , using human bodies as nutrients .
In collaboration with two funeral cooperatives in the Hague , Loop has now made ten coffins , which sell for 1 250 euros ( 1456 US dollars ) each .
As production increases , Hendrikx expects the price of the coffins to drop .
He is hoping that mycelium caskets will become “ the new normal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : This Ice Urn floats While Slowly Returning Cremated Remains to Nature

Rituals surrounding death are deeply ingrained into our religious and cultural past. Throughout history, humans have gone to great lengths to preserve those traditions, and in almost every culture there is great ceremony surrounding the passing of a loved one.
In many societies, burying the deceased is the traditional way of handling the passing of a loved one. This practice, however, has environmental consequences. Embalming, burial, and cremation release toxic chemicals into the air and soil. Maintaining memorial plots requires immense amounts of space and water.
“The best way is to allow your body to feed the earth or ocean in a way that is sustainable for future generations,” says Susan Dobscha, a professor of marketing at Bentley University and editor of an upcoming book about the green-burial industry [1].
One Dutch start-up is allowing you to do just that. With its new “living coffin”, you can ensure that your loved one’s body returns nutrients back to nature.
Read: These Organic Burial Pods Will Turn You Into A Tree When You Die
The Living Coffin
Delft researcher Bob Hendrikx, along with his team at the start-up company Loop, have designed the world’s first living coffin.
Unlike traditional coffins, which are made from wood, Hendrikx made this new coffin from mushroom mycelium. This will allow the body to compost more efficiently while removing toxic substances from the soil. This will enrich the soil in that area, allowing trees and plants to grow [2].
Mycelium is the underground root system of mushrooms. The coffin itself is then filled with a bed of moss to stimulate decomposition.
“Mycelium is nature’s biggest recycler,” explained Hendrikx. “It’s continuously looking for food and transforming it into plant nutrition.” [3]
Mycelium also eats toxins and turns them into nutrients. Hendrikx points to Chernobyl as an example. Mushrooms were used there to clean up the soil after the nuclear disaster.
“And the same thing happens in our burial places, because the soil is super polluted there and mycelium really likes metals, oils and microplastics,” he said [3].
The company grows the coffins at the Delft University of Technology by mixing mycelium with wood chips in the mold of a coffin. They can grow within only one week. After the mushrooms grow through the wood chips, the coffin has to fry. When it is complete, it is capable of holding up to two hundred kilograms.
Read: Forget Coffins or Boxes: This Company Swirls You Into Unique Glass Art Creations When You Die
Giving Back to the Earth
Once you have buried the coffin, it will interact with the ground water and dissolve within thirty to 45 days. The researchers estimate the body will then take only two to three years to decompose, compared with the ten to twenty years it takes with a traditional coffin.
“[The living coffin allows] people to become one with nature again. We can enrich the soil instead of polluting it,” said Hendrikx [4].
Once the living coffin is in the ground, you can water it, plant seeds, and decide what kind of tree you want to become.
“This coffin means we actually feed the earth with our bodies. We are nutrients, not waste.” [4]
The First Funeral
The first funeral using one of Loop’s living caskets took place recently in the Netherlands.
“I didn’t actually go, but I talked to a relative beforehand – it was a moving moment, we discussed the cycle of life,” said Hendrikx [4].
The relative was the son of the deceased. Despite his sadness at losing his mother, he was happy to know that she will return to nature and soon be living like a tree. Hendrikx described it as a hopeful conversation.
Currently, Loop is working with scientists to measure how human bodies impact soil quality. Their goal is to convince policy makers to convert polluted areas into forests, using human bodies as nutrients.
In collaboration with two funeral cooperatives in the Hague, Loop has now made ten coffins, which sell for 1 250 euros (1456 US dollars) each.
As production increases, Hendrikx expects the price of the coffins to drop. He is hoping that mycelium caskets will become “the new normal” [4].
Keep Reading: This Ice Urn floats While Slowly Returning Cremated Remains to Nature


theheartysoul--2020-09-25--Photographer Forms Landscapes Using Just Human Bodies

The human body has been sculpted , painted , and photographed for hundreds and even thousands of years .
Never before , however , has it been photographed like this .
In his series “ Bodyscapes ” photographer Carl Warner uses the human body to create various desert and rocky human body landscapes .
The results are stunning .
Using photographs of different objects to create landscapes is not something new to Carl Warner .
In his series Foodscapes , he uses food items to create his images .
In his series Other Worlds , he uses regular household items @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and more .
( 1 ) Perhaps one of his most awe-inspiring , however , is his series Bodyscapes .
Here , he uses the human body to create human body landscapes that look like desert and barren rocky landscapes .
( 1 ) The scenes with naked bodies in the dusty , desert terrain of Michelangelo Antonioni ’ s film Zabriskie Point inspired Warner to look at the similarities between the human body and these types of landscapes .
( 1 ) There is a challenge to creating these images because the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or household items .
( 1 ) Bodies have less variation in color , shape , size , and Positioning & angle types .
AdvertisementThough it looks like there are multiple the images , each one is actually of only one person .
Creating these scenes involves the stitching together of several photos of the same person .
( 1 ) To create the various hills , mountains , and valleys in each photo , he relies on the different skin textures and shapes that the human body can make .
Bent knees @ @ @ @ @ @ @ arched back or a flexed abdomen all bring different elements to create a barren desert-like appearance .
Warner says using only one person for each photo is important for the continuity of the landscape .
Lighting is also important .
Warren does his best to recreate natural lighting inside the studio .
This provides a certain amount of realism to the images so that they better mimic a natural , outdoor landscape .
Certain parts about shooting Bodyscapes were actually easier for Warner than his Foodscapes series .
The scenes using food require @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of a food stylist .
All Bodyscapes requires is for him and his assistant to ensure the skin is well hydrated and free of clothing marks .
Warner sketches out his ideas ahead of time , however , once the shoot begins this can often change .
The body doesn ’ t always photograph the way he expects it to , and often he ’ ll see other shapes and angles during the shoot that inspires him to go a different direction .
Read : Diver Captures Rare Footage Of A Sea Angel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ primarily of friends and models .
He did begin to receive offers from people who wanted to pose for him after seeing his work .
Ideally , Warner would like the opportunity to photograph famous people .
Particularly those whose bodies have been a pivotal aspect of their careers or personal journeys .
Advertisement Not a detail has been neglected in Warren ’ s images , including the titles of each photo .
Some of these include : • The Valley of the Reclining Woman Though the images do have a somewhat sensual @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” images is not Warren ’ s intention .
Visit his website to learn more about Warren ’ s journey in photography and see more of his work .
Keep Reading : Stunning Iridescent Clouds Snapped Above Skies of Siberia ’ s Belukha Mountain

The human body has been sculpted, painted, and photographed for hundreds and even thousands of years. Never before, however, has it been photographed like this. In his series “Bodyscapes” photographer Carl Warner uses the human body to create various desert and rocky human body landscapes. The results are stunning.
Human Body Landscapes
Using photographs of different objects to create landscapes is not something new to Carl Warner. In his series Foodscapes, he uses food items to create his images. In his series Other Worlds, he uses regular household items to create cityscapes, nature scenes, and more. (1)
Bodyscapes.
Image Credit: Carl Warner
Read: Ukrainian Photographer Captures a Magical World of Snails in Incredible Macro Shoot
Perhaps one of his most awe-inspiring, however, is his series Bodyscapes. Here, he uses the human body to create human body landscapes that look like desert and barren rocky landscapes. (1)
The Inspiration
The scenes with naked bodies in the dusty, desert terrain of Michelangelo Antonioni’s film Zabriskie Point inspired Warner to look at the similarities between the human body and these types of landscapes. (1)
“I was fascinated by the relationship between body and landscape, and I have always been looking at my own body in terms of its form as something structural and sculptural,” he explained. (1)
There is a challenge to creating these images because the human body has more limitations than food or household items. (1) Bodies have less variation in color, shape, size, and Positioning & angle types.
“It is less versatile, but it is often the case that having some restriction pushes you harder creatively, which makes it all a worthwhile challenge,” he said. (1)
Bodyscapes.
Image Credit: Carl Warner
The Composition
Though it looks like there are multiple the images, each one is actually of only one person. Creating these scenes involves the stitching together of several photos of the same person. (1)
“The scenes can simply be one shot of a part of their body or multiple shots that are composited together to make a more intricate scene,” Warner explains. “Once I have posed, lit and photographed the subject, I then take the image into post-production in order to grade and finesse it. I simply add a sky to the scene to give the image a sense of scale.” (2)
To create the various hills, mountains, and valleys in each photo, he relies on the different skin textures and shapes that the human body can make. Bent knees and elbows, the curve of an arched back or a flexed abdomen all bring different elements to create a barren desert-like appearance.
Warner says using only one person for each photo is important for the continuity of the landscape.
“I know people would love these to be made with many different bodies, but doing this would mean having different skin tones, which would lose the sense of continuity within the landscape. I also like the fact that it is all made from one individual, as it offers an aspect of alternative portraiture and becomes a more intimate connection with the subject,” (1)
Lighting is also important. Warren does his best to recreate natural lighting inside the studio. This provides a certain amount of realism to the images so that they better mimic a natural, outdoor landscape.
Bodyscapes vs Foodscapes
Certain parts about shooting Bodyscapes were actually easier for Warner than his Foodscapes series. The scenes using food require several days to build and the help of a food stylist. All Bodyscapes requires is for him and his assistant to ensure the skin is well hydrated and free of clothing marks.
Warner sketches out his ideas ahead of time, however, once the shoot begins this can often change. The body doesn’t always photograph the way he expects it to, and often he’ll see other shapes and angles during the shoot that inspires him to go a different direction.
“I can build up a foreground, midground and background quite quickly, but I like the fact that there is a certain amount of unpredictability within the image-making process.” (1)
Bodyscapes.
Image Credit: Carl Warner
Read: Diver Captures Rare Footage Of A Sea Angel Swimming Under The Ice
The Subjects
The photos are primarily of friends and models. He did begin to receive offers from people who wanted to pose for him after seeing his work. Ideally, Warner would like the opportunity to photograph famous people. Particularly those whose bodies have been a pivotal aspect of their careers or personal journeys.
The Names
Not a detail has been neglected in Warren’s images, including the titles of each photo. Some of these include:
Pectoral Dunes
The Valley of the Reclining Woman
The Cave of Abdo-men
Elbow Point (2)
Though the images do have a somewhat sensual feel to them, making “erotic” images is not Warren’s intention.
“These images are a different kind of portrait where the bodies we live in are being portrayed as a place we can visit,” he explains. “I think that there is a sense of spiritual contemplation and peace about looking at ourselves in this way.” (2)
Visit his website to learn more about Warren’s journey in photography and see more of his work.
Keep Reading: Stunning Iridescent Clouds Snapped Above Skies of Siberia’s Belukha Mountain


theheartysoul--2020-09-25--Hungry Polar Bears Chew On Plastic Bag In Heartbreaking Photos

Devastating photos have emerged of two polar bear cubs eating a plastic bag they dug up on the shore .
Hungry polar bears aren ’ t the only ones who unintentionally eat plastic waste in the arctic , and this leftover trash is a big problem .
Jens Wikström is an Arctic Expeditions leader from Sweden .
Recently he was on an expedition in Lifdefjorden in Svalbard , Norway , when he spotted two young polar bear cubs playing with a black plastic bag .
( 1 ) From a safe distance away , he watched the hungry polar bears @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
They first began playing with it , ripping it apart like a toy .
This lasted about 15 minutes before they finally ate some of it .
He described it as heartbreaking to watch.Advertisement He explains that polar bear cubs are naturally very playful animals , and will use almost anything they can get their paws on as a toy .
Wikström goes on to explain how polar bears aren ’ t the only arctic animals affected by plastic pollution .
He has seen other animals , such as arctic foxes , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ waste that washes up onshore .
That garbage arrives there from the Arctic Ocean currents North East of Svalbard and the Gulf Stream that comes up from Europe .
( 1 ) Though the bear population in Svalbard is doing well currently , their reliance on sea ice for survival makes them highly vulnerable .
According to the current projections , the Arctic could be ice-free by 2050 due to climate change .
( 1 ) Eating large pieces of plastic isn ’ t even the biggest threat that plastic waste poses for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ microplastics that make their way into their regular diet that are far more deadly .
( 1 ) AdvertisementAdvertisementMicroplastics are small plastic fragments ( less than 5mm in diameter ) that end up in our waterways and oceans .
( 2 ) These tiny plastic particles are then consumed by nearly every form of aquatic life ( 2 ) : Microplastics aren ’ t digested properly by any of these organisms and reduce their ability to feed properly .
This results in low energy availability , essentially causing “ starvation ” .
Many @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sea is responsible for producing much of the oxygen we need to breathe – without them , the whole world will eventually cease to exist .
( 2 ) Not just a threat to marine ecosystems , microplastics are moved along the food chain and affect other plant and animal life as well , including humans .
( 2 ) It is clear that we have a plastic problem .
If we want to save our animals , our ecosystems , our planet , and truthfully ourselves , we must make big changes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we can reduce our personal use of plastics .
We can campaign our offices and workplaces to go plastic-free .
Lastly , we can petition the government and those in power to make laws that limit the use of plastics and protect our environment.AdvertisementAdvertisement Keep Reading : Expert Warns Trophy Hunting Could Push Polar Bears To Extinction

Devastating photos have emerged of two polar bear cubs eating a plastic bag they dug up on the shore. Hungry polar bears aren’t the only ones who unintentionally eat plastic waste in the arctic, and this leftover trash is a big problem.
Hungry Polar Bears Eat Plastic Bag
Jens Wikström is an Arctic Expeditions leader from Sweden. Recently he was on an expedition in Lifdefjorden in Svalbard, Norway, when he spotted two young polar bear cubs playing with a black plastic bag. (1)
From a safe distance away, he watched the hungry polar bears dig the bag from the shoreline show. They first began playing with it, ripping it apart like a toy. This lasted about 15 minutes before they finally ate some of it.
He described it as heartbreaking to watch.
“[This is] what happens to our ecosystem when we don’t take care of our sh*t’.” he said. “It ends up in the bellies of these animals.” (1)
He explains that polar bear cubs are naturally very playful animals, and will use almost anything they can get their paws on as a toy.
Not Just Hungry Polar Bears
Wikström goes on to explain how polar bears aren’t the only arctic animals affected by plastic pollution. He has seen other animals, such as arctic foxes, also play with and eat the plastic waste that washes up onshore.
“It’s no secret we have a lot of pollution… I just hope people will think twice before leaving plastic bags or cigarette butts on the ground, you never know where it will end up.” (1)
That garbage arrives there from the Arctic Ocean currents North East of Svalbard and the Gulf Stream that comes up from Europe. (1)
Though the bear population in Svalbard is doing well currently, their reliance on sea ice for survival makes them highly vulnerable. According to the current projections, the Arctic could be ice-free by 2050 due to climate change. (1)
Deadly Microplastics
Eating large pieces of plastic isn’t even the biggest threat that plastic waste poses for these animals. It’s the microplastics that make their way into their regular diet that are far more deadly. (1)
“microplastics are affecting the food chain of fish and seals, so plastic is already getting into the polar bear’s diet as they predate on these. And when it gets into the diet it can affect the milk of the mother as well.” (1)
Microplastics are small plastic fragments (less than 5mm in diameter) that end up in our waterways and oceans. (2) These tiny plastic particles are then consumed by nearly every form of aquatic life (2):
Corals
Plankton
Marine invertebrates
Fish
Whales
Microplastics aren’t digested properly by any of these organisms and reduce their ability to feed properly. This results in low energy availability, essentially causing “starvation”. Many of the life that lives below the sea is responsible for producing much of the oxygen we need to breathe – without them, the whole world will eventually cease to exist. (2)
Not just a threat to marine ecosystems, microplastics are moved along the food chain and affect other plant and animal life as well, including humans. (2)
The Bottom Line
It is clear that we have a plastic problem. If we want to save our animals, our ecosystems, our planet, and truthfully ourselves, we must make big changes now.
On the individual level, we can reduce our personal use of plastics. We can campaign our offices and workplaces to go plastic-free. Lastly, we can petition the government and those in power to make laws that limit the use of plastics and protect our environment.
Keep Reading: Expert Warns Trophy Hunting Could Push Polar Bears To Extinction