Wednesday

In today’s issue, we’ll take a look at:

• Wellness Postcards: Spain’s ancient traditions

• When should you brush your teeth in the morning?

• What if you didn’t need your daily coffee?

• If vitamin C actually helps colds

• How to find the right insurance for your pet

True or False?

Flossing is only necessary if food gets stuck between your teeth.

Scroll to the bottom for the answer.

Wellness Postcards: Spain’s Ancient Traditions

Welcome back to Wellness Postcards. This week, we’re writing from Spain, where wellness has been part of the landscape for centuries. Long before “wellness travel” became a thing, people were visiting thermal springs, coastal towns, monasteries, and quiet mountain regions to rest, recover, and reconnect.

In Granada, Arab baths carry on a tradition of warm pools, steam, and slow ritual. In Galicia and Ourense, natural hot springs offer a more elemental kind of reset, with mineral-rich waters rising from the earth. In the Spanish Pyrenees, wellness can look like hiking, fresh mountain air, and a quiet yoga session after a long day outside.

Spain’s coastal regions bring their own version of restoration. Along Costa de la Luz, the Canary Islands, and the Balearic Islands, self-care might mean swimming in natural pools, walking by the sea, eating simply, or letting the rhythm of the day move a little slower than usual.

The lesson from Spain is that wellness doesn’t always need to be scheduled down to the minute. Sometimes it’s warm water, good food, a long walk, a quiet courtyard, or an afternoon where nobody’s rushing you into the next thing.

When To Brush Your Teeth In The Morning

The morning toothbrushing debate is more controversial than you'd think. Some people brush the second they wake up. Others refuse to let toothpaste and coffee meet in the same timeline, which is honestly understandable.

Dentists generally recommend brushing before breakfast. Overnight, plaque and bacteria build up on your teeth and tongue, which is part of the reason morning breath exists in the first place. Brushing first thing helps clear that buildup and gives your teeth a little fluoride protection before food, coffee, or juice enters the chat.

The tricky part is that many breakfast foods and drinks are acidic, including fruit, coffee, and orange juice. After you eat or drink them, your enamel can be temporarily softened, so brushing right away may be a little too aggressive for your teeth.

If brushing after breakfast is the only way you’ll actually do it, all is not lost. Try rinsing with water after eating, then wait about 30 minutes before brushing. The best routine is the one you can stick with, but your teeth would like to gently vote for brushing before breakfast.

What If You Didn't Need Your Daily Coffee?

Think about why you really reach for that morning cup. Half of it is the ritual, the warm mug, the pause before the day starts. The problem is what comes with it: the jitters, the dehydration, the crash that has you back at the coffee pot by 3 PM.

Drink ZYN gives you the ritual without the rollercoaster. One scoop of the Turmeric Electrolyte Drink Mix into water delivers electrolytes for real hydration, 100% daily value of Vitamins C, D, and Zinc, and up to 15 turmeric roots, all low in sugar and non-GMO.

You keep the daily habit, but instead of borrowing energy you'll pay back later, you're actually giving your body something. Made by a certified B Corp, in fruit flavors that beat plain black coffee. Shake well, be well.

Make the Swap

Thank you to Drink ZYN for sponsoring The Canopy.

Can Vitamin C Really Help A Cold?

Vitamin C packets have become one of those things people reach for the second they feel a scratchy throat coming on. It feels proactive, fizzy, and just official enough to make you think, “Great, I’m handling this.”

Vitamin C supports immune function and helps the body fight off germs. Research suggests that higher doses may help shorten a cold a little or make symptoms feel less severe, especially when taken early. The catch is that it’s not a magic shield, and it probably won’t stop every cold from happening.

Many immune-support supplements also include nutrients like B vitamins and zinc, which can play a role in immune function. Some versions include electrolytes too, which may be helpful when you’re sick and trying to stay hydrated.

Still, more isn’t always better. Too much vitamin C can cause stomach cramps, nausea, or diarrhea, and some people should check with a healthcare provider before taking high-dose supplements. Think of it as possible support, not a cure. Rest, fluids, food, and patience still have to do their very annoying jobs.

Protect Against Rising Vet Costs with Pet Insurance

The cost of veterinary services has been rising recently, with some common surgical procedures costing up to $7,000. Pet insurance can help cover accidents, illnesses, and even routine care, with some plans reimbursing up to 90% of costs. Money.com's Best Pet Insurance list can help you find affordable coverage starting at just $10 a month so you can focus on what matters most – your furry friend's well-being.

Get a personalized pet insurance quote today and save thousands on costly vet bills.

Thank you to Money.com for sponsoring The Canopy.

The Pause:

Before you go, take a small pause from your day with this tip brought to you by The Canopy editors.

Summer Recipe: Strawberry Shortcake Nachos. Bake cinnamon-sugar pita chips and top with strawberries and whipped cream.

Wellness Round-Up

• ☕️ A better swap for your morning cup of coffee

• 🧺 The right way to wash linen so it lasts longer

• ✨ Why lymphatic face brushes are suddenly everywhere

• 👡 The comfy shoe trend that keeps making a comeback

Reflections:

🌎 Did You Know: Herbal ingredients are commonly used in Thai spa treatments. Herbal compresses used in Thai spa treatments are typically filled with aromatic herbs such as lemongrass and turmeric.

🌅 Sunset Of The Day: The sun can provide the most beautiful photography. That's why we're eager to see your favorite sunrise or sunset photos. Reply to this email with your best sun-based pictures for a chance to be featured!