by: The Refresh Editors Have you ever rolled your eyes at the health coverage you see in magazines or online? If you’re tired of reading cheery listicles of health tips that don’t take chronic illness into account, or paeans to the latest trendy diet, TheRefresh is here for you with pieces that explore not just how to stay well, but how to live a full, rich life even as you face health challenges, and that honor the personal experiences of…
by: Nadia Gerassimenko I had the worst stomachache when I was six. It crept up unexpectedly and completely incapacitated me, leaving me lying and moaning, tears streaming from my eyes. I felt impregnated with heavy gases and sometimes it felt as if sharp knives were cutting through me. If it weren’t for my mother holding my hand, I didn’t know how I would survive the night all alone, how I would even calm down and drift off to sleep. The…
by Nadia Gerassimenko Cats are obligate carnivores. They have been for a millions of years. Even the advent of feline processed food 100 years ago does not change that. Although cats are very resilient creatures, they cannot handle and thrive on a diet that is dry and full of carbohydrates or wet and made out of questionable animal by-products that most big cat food manufacturers produce. They can live for so long until they become allergic, overweight, diabetic, and start…
by: Nadia Gerassimenko When I got my very own first cat, Sheldon, a ragdoll, I was going by my instinct, his endearing appearance, and descriptions I read about of how ragdolls are as feline creatures. I truly thought he was the one! Ragdolls are usually sociable, laid back, and cuddly. My Sheldon is not. While he is very sociable (he makes sure to make his presence known!), half the time I don’t know what he wants when he meows; he…