UNDER ONE UMBRELLA BLOG

Tuesday, October 9, 2012

Yoga Helps Women Recovering from Breast Cancer


National Breast Cancer Awareness Month (NBCAM), is an annual international health campaign organized by major breast cancer charities every October to increase awareness of the disease. October also provides an opportunity for charities to increase public awareness of their work towards a cure and also to remind women of the importance of early detection.

There is no cure for breast cancer so the goal of the NBCAM from the start has been to promote mammography as the most effective weapon in the fight against the disease. For those who are fortunate to fight and conquer the disease, life has its shares of ups and downs as a result.

Side effects are plentiful and one of the major setbacks that one third of breast cancer survivors experience is fatigue. Fatigue can affect their overall quality of life.  Supplements, proper diet and exercise can help, but there is no "definitive" cure or treatments for fatigue.

A new study published in the journal "Cancer" finds that doing yoga might help restore some lost vitality.  After three months of twice-weekly yoga classes, a group of breast cancer survivors in California reported significantly diminished fatigue and increased "vigor." A control group of women who took classes in post-cancer health issues, but didn't do yoga, had no changes in their fatigue or depression levels.

Dr. Maira Campos, a research scholar at the University of Miami's Miller School of Medicine said the findings show similar results from past studies that looked at yoga and cancer patients.

31 breast cancer survivors were chosen to undergo "treatment" for their fatigue over 12 weeks.  Each woman was randomly assigned to participate in either two 90-minute yoga classes every week or a two-hour health class once a week.

The group taking the educational classes experienced about the same amount of fatigue and energy throughout the initial study period. However, the group taking the yoga class reported about a 26 percent drop in fatigue and a 55 percent increase in energy after the 12-week yoga regimen.  The women in the yoga group also continued to report significant improvements in fatigue levels three months after the classes stopped.

Gaining a sense of control over one's physical body, when one has a disease like breast cancer, might be an important part of the benefit.

Yoga has been shown to provide relaxation, support, and increased energy amid the turmoil of breast cancer.  Anything to help people cope with this dreaded disease and to assist in recovery is worth the effort.  The study has shown that becoming more mindful in taking time to slow down and breathe can actually enhance a person's energy, vitality, recovery, and even spirituality.

In support of the Breast Cancer Awareness Month Under One Umbrella will make a 5% donation to the 501(c)(3) Breast Cancer Charity of your choice for every purchase made in the month of October.

A patient wrote this:

Dear God,

I have developed a disease which I have often feared. I am afraid. I am lonely. Questions crowd my mind: Will I be cured? Will there be pain? How long will I live? How will my family handle this? I ask with all my heart that I be healed. But, if my healing is not in Your great plan, I trust You to be with me through it all. I trust You to give me peace, to let me live with hope, to relieve any pain, and to let me know Your presence. Amen.

--Courtesy of
Baptist Memorial Hospital

“People go through challenging moments of losing people and of having their life threatened from illness and real grief. But they get through it. And that's the testament to the human spirit and it's -- we are fragile, but we also are divine”.   Sheryl Crow



Tuesday, September 18, 2012

American Indian Day...


The Miccosukee Tribe of Indians is a Native American Tribe from Florida. The tribe separated from the Seminole Tribe in the 1950s to become independent; they were recognized by the state of Florida in 1957, and gained federal recognition in 1962.
Today, the tribe occupies several reservations in southern Florida, principally the Miccosukee Indian Reservation. In the 1920s and 1930s, many Seminoles established communities along the recently constructed Tamiami Trail, a roadway that ran through the Everglades and connected the cities of Tampa and Miami.  They spoke the Mikasuki language, a close relative and dialect to the Seminole Hitchiti language.
If you would like to know a little bit more about The Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida, American Indian Day will be celebrated September 29 from 10am to 8pm at the Miccosukee Indian Reservation, where they will share their traditions, customs, and art with the purpose of providing education, culture and fun to those who want to know more about this native habitat of proud people.
We also invite you to visit our website at www.underoneumbrella.com to learn more about our product and “art” of creating shade through our unique and completely customizable umbrellas.
Shonabish (pronounced shoh-nah-bish).
“Thank you” In Mikasuki Language.

Tuesday, August 28, 2012

Once In a Blue Moon......


Although the full moon that you'll see on Aug. 31, 2012, will look like an ordinary full moon, it will actually be a Blue Moon.

What is a Blue Moon? The most common definition of a blue moon is the second full moon in a calendar month. For a blue moon to occur the first of the full moons must appear at or near the beginning of the month so that the second will fall within the same month (the average span between two moons is 29.5 days). The full Moon on Aug. 31, 2012, will be this type of blue moon; it will be the second full moon in one month.

How often does a Blue Moon occur? Over the next 20 years there will be about 15 blue moons. No blue moon of any kind will occur in the years 2014, and 2017. The more recent phenomenon, where the blue moon is considered to be the second full moon in a calendar month, last occurred on December 31, 2009. Two full moons in one month may occur in any month out of the year except for February, which is shorter than the lunar cycle.

The rare phenomenon of two blue moons occurring in the same year happens approximately once every 19 years. 1999 was the last time a blue moon appeared twice, in January and March. The months of the double blue moons are almost always January and March. That is because the short month that falls in between them, February, is a key ingredient in this once-every-19-year phenomenon. For January and March to each have two full moons, it's necessary for February to have none at all. Since February is usually 28 days long, and the average span between full moons is 29.5 days, if a full moon occurs at the end of January, it's possible for the next full moon to skip February entirely and fall in the beginning of March.

"Blue Moon" appears to have been an expression long before it developed its calendar meaning. According to the Oxford English Dictionary, the first reference to a blue moon comes from a proverb recorded in 1528:"If they say the moon is blue, we must believe that it is true." In the 19th century, the phrase until a blue moon developed, meaning "never." The phrase, once in a blue moon today has come to mean "every now and then" or "rarely."

We invite you to visit our website (www.underoneumbrella.com) and view all of the variety of styles and colors from which to choose from...including different shades of...blue, or white, or gray (depending on the season, day of the month or year we are in!).

"Blue moon
You saw me standing alone
Without a dream in my heart
Without a love of my own" - Elvis Presley

Friday, August 10, 2012

Shooting Stars Event on August 10/11,11/12 &12/13.


 Meteor showers are some of the most popular skywatching events each year. The Perseid Meteor shower (expected to be visible from August 11-13) will be more impressive this year than last year.

A meteor shower occurs when Earth travels through specks of debris from comets or asteroids. These pieces of dust and debris hit Earth's atmosphere at scorching speeds and disintegrate in flashes of light. This is why meteors are often called "shooting stars," because of the way they streak across the sky.

So, what is the best way to watch a meteor shower?

The key is to have a dark sky. For urban skywatchers, this means getting as far away from dense city centers and light pollution as you can. Ideal conditions for viewing a meteor shower include a clear, unclouded night sky with little to no natural moonlight. This year, the Perseid Meteor Shower falls right between two full moons, cooperating for meteor shower viewing enthusiasts.

It's also important to dress appropriately for the occasion, so be sure to bundle up for the cold overnight temperatures – it’s usually best to watch after midnight. Pack a blanket, compass (look towards the NORTHEAST sky), bug spray, and snacks. Mittens or gloves and a warm hat are also a good idea for those who feel the cold at night. Planning a camping trip at this time is a great option!

Then, prepare to exercise a little patience. NASA astronomers advise watching for at least half an hour. While some displays can showcase meteors at rates of up to 100 per hour, others will take a little more time. Use your naked eyes. When watching a meteor shower, there's no need to use a telescope or binoculars because they will limit the amount of sky you can see at one time. Pick a dark patch of the sky, but don't necessarily fixate on one specific spot.

We at Under One Umbrella are also unique shooting stars. Come and visit our website at www.underoneumbrella.com  Do not be worried...“The sky is not falling” (Thomas Leonard)...go ahead and “create your own visual style….let it be unique for yourself and yet identifiable for others.”(Orson Welles)...because "Fashion is not something that exist in dresses only. Fashion is in the sky, in the streets; fashion has to do with ideas, the way we live, what is happening.” (Coco Chanel).


Monday, August 6, 2012

Olympics…an Umbrella?


Olympics…an Umbrella?

Rain. Everyone interested in the Olympic Games in London been worried about the forecast. We all know that London is considered the “rainy city” of Europe. Rain and fog have always synonymous with London. How many times did we see a delay in the Wimbledon Tennis Championships? Over recent years, whenever play affected or even washed out entirely by rain it produced an inevitable outpouring of frustration. In 2009, Wimbledon finally got its act together and unveiled a roof on Centre Court.

But is this criticism of London warranted? Maybe not…

Although London is thought of as being a "rainy" city, Zurich, Switzerland receives almost twice as much precipitation as London (42.3 to 23.3 inches). As a comparison, Miami receives 62 inches of rain per year. London is among the driest of Europe's capitals. Most of this reputation comes from the fact that rain is lightly spread out along the whole year (“it’s ALWAYS RAINING in London…”) versus torrential downpours (“it’s ALWAYS POURING in Miami…”). London averages only 13 thunderstorm days. On the other hand, London is the 3rd rainiest city in Europe receiving rain 226 days out of the year.

London also has a reputation for having the ability to be sunny and raining at the same time. Not only can you experience getting wet, but you are also threatened by the possibility of sunburn!

London also has more “Pubs” than any other city in Europe…with outside seating…similar to South Beach, Coconut Grove, Fort Lauderdale, or West Palm Beach with the trendy restaurants and cafes. And those outside seating areas need protection from the rain and sun. Visit www.underonembrella.com for all of your outside umbrella needs.


"Wherever you go, no matter what the weather, always bring your own sunshine." Anthony J. D'Angelo




Monday, July 30, 2012

Under One Retractable Roof


The Miami Marlins have a new stadium; Marlins Ballpark...and it has a state of the art retractable roof.

Some fun Marlins Ballpark retractable roof facts:

- Three panels elevated over the playing field and ballpark canopy.
- 560 foot span, track to track - just short of two football fields in length.
- 338,000 square feet of roof surface areas, or 7.76 acres.
- 13-minute operation time from fully closed to fully open position.
- Roof panels can be operated independently to produce micro shading effects.
- Fifth retractable roof built over a ballpark in the U.S.

The retractable roof at Marlins Ballpark is an "Engineering Marvel." It consists of three metal decked operable panels: one upper panel and two lower panels. The East and West panels are at a lower elevation over the stands and the center panel is at the highest elevation with 200 feet clear over second base to allow for "pop-flies". The retractable roof mechanization system is supported by two horizontal concrete track beams approximately 548 feet apart and 750 feet long. When open, the Center Panel retracts to the west main entrance plaza and the East and West panels will retract underneath the Center panel.

The process of either opening or closing a combined 19 million pounds of steel takes only 13 minutes, traveling at a speed of 39 feet per minute (It is estimated that opening and closing the roof costs approximately $10 or less in electricity).  Each of the three panels can move simultaneously or individually to provide partial shading to the field surface and patrons. 

In the South Florida climate, a retractable roof stadium for baseball is an absolute necessity.  Conversely, you wouldn't want to have dinner on the beach or a cup of coffee at your favorite cafe without shade from the Miami sun. Our state of the art Under One Umbrellas provide shade and cover from the Florida elements and offer unparalleled beauty, colors, and options. We offer a variety of styles & designs and all of our umbrellas can be uniquely branded to advertise your business.....

"But the building's identity resided in the ornament." - Louis Sullivan-


Regards,

Under One Umbrella

Wednesday, July 25, 2012

Design Your Own...Do Not Limit Your Imagination!


Under One Umbrella uses two major brands in the manufacture of their fabric and materials.  Sunbrella fabrics have been the leader in performance fabrics and innovative multi-use designs since 1961.  For a brand that started out as an industrial-grade awning fabric in only six colors, Sunbrella fabrics have come a long way.  Their fabrics have led the industry with extensive styles and colors while providing unparalleled performance. In the early 1990s Sunbrella unveiled its softer side with stunning fabrics targeted at the interior design trade and now available in design showrooms across the country.  Today, Sunbrella is used in a variety of innovative new products that offer creative solutions for consumers and the design community.

Tenara sewing thread enhances the life of the outdoor products in which it is used. Tenara is resistant to UV sunlight, fading, chemicals, extreme weather and they back their products with a full limited lifetime warranty.  The unique ePTFE fiber construction of GORE® TENARA® thread extends the life of fabric seams and ultimately the products in which it is used.

Under One Umbrella is proud of its affiliation with these brands and the quality of the products they offer.  If you visit our website (www.underoneumbrella.com) you can use our exclusive "Umbrella Configuration" tool to customize your own umbrella without limits - only your imagination!


“Everything you can imagine is real." Pablo Picasso 

Thursday, July 19, 2012

Beautiful Toxic Clouds in the Sky of South Florida

"The sky, at sunset, looked like a carnivorous flower..." Roberto BolaƱo.

No, it is not the name of a movie. It is what happens here in South Florida. The recent pink sunsets that we are experiencing are the result of an annual summer phenomenon - African Dust. What is African Dust you might ask? As the name suggests, "dust" is defined as dry powder consisting of tiny particles of earth or waste matter lying on the ground or on surfaces or carried in the air. Africa - lions, zebras, elephants, monkeys, Animal Planet, "Madagascar" movies? That's what comes into your mind when you think of Africa? Right? African Dust is creating these beautiful pink sunsets. These microbes traveling all the way across the Atlantic are producing these climate effects. One day you are walking to your car in six inches of water because it hasn't stopped raining all day, the next day tumbleweeds are rolling down the streets because the day is bone dry. People with respiratory problems are also affected. Asthma attacks are on the rise. Coral reefs, plants, animals from the region are also affected. In a recent University of Florida study, African Dust "clouds" can actually fertilize the water off the Florida coast with iron. The irony in all of this, as the title suggests, is that these beautiful pink clouds that offer breathtaking sunset landscapes are also,literally, taking people's breath away! And eating our coral reefs, killing our fauna, and affecting our climate.
What does all of this have to do with umbrellas?!? How often are you cleaning your umbrellas? These same particles that are invading our environment are also affecting your furniture. Protect your investment!

"You must not blame me if I do talk to the clouds." Henry David Thoreau

Regards, Under One Umbrella

Tuesday, July 17, 2012

The Rain Is Coming


The following months are considered the rainy months, drops of water everywhere even though the weather channel says 20% of probability in your city or area, guess What? That day could be the day of a summer afternoon storm that could pass by your home or restaurant.We know that in those cases the last thing on your mind are THE UMBRELLAS!
Do not let the rain and wind blow your mind, remind yourself that you must close them before the day or night ends because," Someone could enjoy being Under One Umbrella" but not if it is broken.




Monday, July 16, 2012

Mission Statement


Welcome to Under One Umbrella

If you are one of those people that is looking for something unique, fresh, versatile with the latest form and function, we have news for you!. You just got to the right place.

Our customer expressions are: Wow!, That is so Unique!, Amazing!,Beautiful!, Lovely!, Those colors make me so happy!

Do not hesitate, you can also become one, because Under One Umbrella is committed to exceed customer expectation by providing shade,quality,protection, and continuous improvement to our products.


"Let the sun shine, because you can stand Under One Umbrella"