ETWellness

Well, this is my birthday, isn’t it?

Featured by ETWellness, posted in Aging with grace!, Finding My Place in Health & Wellness, Fitness, I Feel Good!, Lifestyles, Smart and Well, Uncategorized

Sometimes, even birthdays, become enmeshed in politics! I was reminded of this when I asked a colleague to not broadcast my day on the company intranet. She replied, “But, everyone will think we don’t care about you!” Yes, birthdays are more political than they should be! Consider this:

Big cakes and little cakes! At work, I’ve seen beautiful, elaborately decorated cakes for some, and last-minute, generic Walmart cakes for others. Why the difference? Well, one person, a manager or key employee is highly-regarded and/or popular, and the other colleague isn’t! Some employees are offered “group cakes” for multiple birthdays in one month or quarter. One clerical manager explained we’d have a cake every week otherwise! Have you ever wondered what your birthday treat says about your place in the office?

Have you experienced a birthday-themed marketing campaign? Instead of wishing us well, we hear from political campaigns and non-profits requesting donations in honor of other people or causes! I must admit, this personal appeal is most annoying to me. Wouldn’t you be annoyed if anyone told you what you should get them for their BD? Family and friends are okay, but a grinning politician?

People can be amazingly insensitive! With so much attention focused on Diversity & Inclusion at work, I’m not sure how “Over the Hill!” party themes would work today, but this was the norm in some offices. I also recall a manager confiding in me how much she wanted to include an employee who doesn’t celebrate holidays and birthdays. She wanted a close and supportive team! So, I asked if she ever considered just respecting the employee and her wishes? My question was met with stony silence.

So, here I am with another birthday at work! I used to take a day or week off to avoid the attention, then my determined manager planned my “surprise” before or after vacation! So, how difficult could it be to celebrate and eat cake? Honestly, I don’t want to be anti-social or politically incorrect, but I prefer my birthday to be mine! I’d love to keep other people and their agendas out of my cake business! And before I forget,

Happy Birthday all “First-Quarter Babies!”

OMG, give me a break!

Featured by ETWellness, posted in Uncategorized

In this country, we treat vacations like one big buffet! We’re ravenous and must devour everything to get our money’s worth! Admittedly, I’m greedy too, but I understand what feeds our collective hunger!

Many of us need more time for travel! When you’ve only a few weeks of vacation time, personal time off (PTO), or, sadly, no paid leave in this country, you feel pressured to maximize the experience. So you rush to your destination and try to see and do as much as possible! Add the misery of traveling today(air, train, and road traffic), and we’re all more stressed.

Travel is wicked expensive! Lodging, transportation, meals, and entertainment can break the bank! Still, we often seek to squeeze in as much as we can. Have you ever splurged on an over-the-top vacation experience? On the other hand, have you ever stayed with family and friends to reduce expenses? Your overspending or thriftiness reflects your response to the cost of travel.

We desperately seek diversions from our daily lives! On the one hand, our minds and bodies beg for variety, stimulation & excitement; on the other, we need rest and a break. When we go on vacation, we feel like the moment is fleeting! So, we rush to get all that we can!

I recently planned a long weekend in the nation’s capital. I had ten things on my list (including museums, monuments, restaurants, etc.). But then, it suddenly hit me that I need R&R too! So, I crossed off most of my list and focused on a few good memories rather than demanding more!

Photo by Oleksandr Pidvalnyi on Pexels.com

Ready to really Spring Forward?

Featured by ETWellness, posted in Finding My Place in Health & Wellness, Fitness, I Feel Good!, Lifestyles, Physical Therapy, Smart and Well, Uncategorized

I wanted to honor my brother by running a marathon with a nonprofit organization that supported him during his illness. A big goal for me, but no execution! So, I found a way to honor him and challenge myself with a local YMCA 10K Training Team! Here’s what I learned:

First, I discovered that less is more (and healthier) with a 10K! My doctor approved and even high-fived me for my interest. But, while my ego wants to go big, my body says no! So, I work with a great bunch of folks every Saturday for ten weeks before the big event. We are motivated to prepare for and complete a popular community-sponsored race and go on this journey together.

Second, it’s exhilarating to train with a group! Ours include runners and walkers, a/k/a “Movers and Shakers!” Our volunteer coaches are passionate about fitness and training. Time flies as we exercise at our own pace, conversing and breathing effortlessly. We are not competitive but focused on an end goal. I’m honestly shocked at how quickly time passes!

Third, an experienced coach is also an excellent partner! Our head coach leads with attention to detail, including lengthy weekly email updates, printed directions for our course, pep talks, and boundless enthusiasm. Our other coaches space out to start and trail behind with slow pokes (like me)! We enjoy tips on hydration, proper shoes and clothes, great stretching, warm-up, and cool-down exercises, and safety tips (staying alert when alone, managing traffic, cell phones, etc.). Our personal weekday programs prepare us for longer Saturday training sessions.

Okay, it’s almost Spring and time to store your winter coat! Are you ready to shake up and move your fitness to a new level? Consider a training group. Maybe, we’ll see you on the road!

“Is it Friday, yet?”

Featured by ETWellness, posted in Lifestyles, Smart and Well, Uncategorized

Photo by Kampus Production on Pexels.com

My friend,

I’m sorry to hear how your job is driving you crazy! There is nothing more demoralizing and stressful. Since I’m a year older and fresh off a break from work, I want to share a few things I’ve learned.

First, I recently discovered a great quote on LinkedIn: “Leaving a toxic workplace is an act of bravery, not defeat!” I wouldn’t call my previous employer “toxic,” but I felt increasingly awful as I held on to a job I had outgrown and worried I couldn’t find something better. But after years of complaining, I finally pivoted to another position! I confidently use my skills in a different place, and I’m happier!

Second, I learned fear of change is a monster, and I must confront it! Staying in a job you hate eats at your self-confidence every day! Yes, “The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results!” To break this cycle, you must do something else! So I started a blog and volunteer projects to grow my interest in wellness and explore my creative side in writing and public speaking. My avocation didn’t lead directly to a new job but opened the door, allowing me to see other possibilities!

Third, I discovered a toxic workplace is a surface issue, and I had to go deeper! Is the problem a lousy boss or horrible co-workers? Is the problem the work culture or a current mismatch in skills and interests? Perhaps, the real issue is more personal (such as childcare, an aging parent, health, money, etc.) The Pandemic helped many realize what was most important. For me, work-life balance is a huge deal! After decades of working in corporate America, I want to see less of a traditional office and a cubicle!

Toxic job situations happen in all workplaces. So, what’s a stressed-out person to do? First, start inward with honest self-talk. Talk to family, friends, and trusted professionals who can make the conversation about you (and not them!). But ultimately, make a plan that moves you to a better place! You deserve this! I started with baby steps like blogging and volunteering. What about you?

I wish you all the best in your journey!

Ready, set, go!

Featured by ETWellness, posted in Finding My Place in Health & Wellness, Fitness, Health cooking and eatting!, I Feel Good!, Lifestyles

Damn, I need valet services for parking at the health club in the new year. Sadly, it’s business as usual, with plenty of parking by month’s end! Change is challenging, but there’s much to learn about managing new resolutions. Here are a few things I’ve discovered.

January is the perfect time to focus on the power and potential of R-words! So many of us are reassessing, reimagining, recalibrating – you get the picture! We know something didn’t work for us last year and want a fresh start and do-over. “Renewal” is my favorite inspiring R-word, and it comes up in my meditation, exercise, and writing. I’m always thinking, committing, and strengthening my will to renew and find greater joy in my life. What’s your R-word?

We endured a heck of a year, and we’re so much smarter! I enjoyed walking four or five days a week last year. I proudly marked my days on a large wall calendar. Excellent job, I thought as I assessed last year, but I also concluded I need more strength training and challenging cardio. So my plan for 2023 includes new workouts and more creative, healthy ways to manage my low-energy days!

January 1st is a tough time to hit the reset button, so consider another day! One Health & Wellness article suggested change and new beginnings can begin on birthdays, any day, week, quarter, anniversaries, or any momentous day! For example, I started getting my annual physical on my late mom’s birthday. The date is easy to remember and honor her. I’m also motivated by her passion for eating right, regular exercise, and enjoying the outdoors. Her birthday is now a nice healthy habit!

It’s always a great time to embrace wellness, welcome change, and challenge our thinking about what’s good for us. Best wishes for a happy new year!

So, what do you want to be when you grow up?

November 27, 2022November 27, 2022 by ETWellness, posted in Careers, Finding My Place in Health & Wellness, I Feel Good!, Physical Therapy, Smart and Well, Uncategorized

This question remains oddly perplexing for kids and adults as we contemplate the next steps in our lives. Choices become even more nerve-racking for adults as the clock ticks away! While watching a favorite weekly drama on television, I heard some sage advice worth sharing.

Let’s start with one annoying, bright, fictional character, a firefighter on an ABC show called Station 19. She is overwhelmed by personal convictions and talent and can’t get out of her own way in life. Finally, her exasperated mentor told her frustrated mentee that the answer was in front of her! In addition, she should look at the job she already knows so well. After this, she should consider an open new role demanding her strong crisis management and people skills.

Further, the mentee’s purpose isn’t some big giant illusive thing to be discovered. Instead, your purpose will reflect everything you’ve done. Everything you’ve done connects the dots in your life and allows you to bring meaning and value to yourself and others. The mentor said that all those dots make you ideal for one area or another, and you’re perfect for leadership now!

In the last few years, I’ve focused on my dots or interests in many areas. Mine include travel, writing, reading, fitness, volunteer projects, etc. I’ve changed jobs to reflect my evolving interests and skills and pivoted away from work that doesn’t interest me.

In one good hour of must-see TV, one can learn something new or confirm what you already know! The answer to what is next is often right in front of you or in places you’ve already ventured. However, it may take a trusted mentor, friend, advisor, or just a little personal courage to see what is in front of you.

So, you think you can eat anything, huh?

Featured by ETWellness, posted in Finding My Place in Health & Wellness, Fitness, Health cooking and eatting!, I Feel Good!, Lifestyles, Uncategorized

My 50th POST! – “People are starving in this country, and you’re throwing away food!” My mother would say this and look at me in horror! I was guided by food labels and my own sense of what keeps me safe. Recently, I listened to an NPR news report on widespread confusion regarding food labels. Let’s take a closer look.

We are often confused by the sheer variety of labels, including: “use before,” “sell by,” “expires on, “good by this date,” “best if used by,” etc. The public’s uncertainty about dates on packaged foods leads to up to 20% of waste in this country, according to Frank Yiannas, the FDA Deputy Commissioner on Food Policy and Response. It seems uniform definitions and standards are lacking.

I surveyed my own kitchen and noted many products with NO date! You’d think those foods are suitable for a lifetime! At first, I thought I might have tossed the packaging, but no, many products simply have no date at all! I’m sure our food preparation and safety standards are better than most in the world. The U.S. is an advanced country, but there still seems to be a measure of “buyer beware” here!

To be safe, I follow a few personal rules:

I look at food labels and try to remember the labeled dates. Some properly sealed foods last longer. I also always refrigerate any suggested food after opening.
I’m cautious regarding dented cans and anything that insults my senses. I’m not going there if it doesn’t look, or smell right or food contents have separated.
I won’t risk my stomach on mere “taste tests” with questionable items in the refrigerator or cupboard.

Old-fashioned cooking may address some problems, but I can’t be thrifty and cavalier and expose my digestive system to something that raises red flags.

After a hard upbringing, a friend of mine hated wasting food! He’d proudly claim he has a stomach that can handle anything! This was true until he ate the wrong thing, suffered from food poisoning a few times, and ended up in the hospital. He learned how painful this could be as his body fought an invasion of poison and bad food!

Photo by Jean van der Meulen on Pexels.com

So, a reasonable consumer is wise and educated. The best offense is a strong defense. Your healthy gut is relying on you! So, here’s to good food and healthy, and happy times in your life and home!

I’m not going back there!

Featured by ETWellness, posted in Finding My Place in Health & Wellness, Lifestyles, Uncategorized

I rushed into the local store smiling and salivating at the thought of enjoying an old favorite treat. Actually, I hadn’t had it in years and couldn’t believe my luck when I called, and the manager confirmed it was in stock. I grinned with satisfaction only to soon discover my treat wasn’t so special anymore!

I remember my first incredible steak, my first perfect cocktail, and my first and most fresh seafood. Who hasn’t shared tales of their first experience with their favorite foods?

Call me simple, but I eagerly anticipated Baskin-Robins’ German Chocolate Cake Ice Cream! I recall my first apartment, my job after college, getting off the train, and running to the store for a big scoop on a sugar cone. I lived for this moment at least three times a week! So, after a long work day and a grueling, crowded trip home, a visit was heaven!

I now realize this habit was expensive and terrible for my waistline! Once I changed jobs and moved, I stopped visiting the ice cream shop. I found plenty of good flavors, healthier choices, and less expensive brands in local groceries. I learned to enjoy ice cream but in moderation. Today, I’m also not fond of overly sweet, creamy desserts full of candy, nuts, caramel sauce, etc. For me, “less is more!” and I’m healthier and happy with my new grown-up reality.

My first experience with just one food (ice cream!) was memorable and oddly connected to my early adult years. I was learning how to work, manage a difficult commute, and cope with stress. Yes, it seems our first initiation with people, products, and services can be intense and strong. Sometimes, we get a whiff of something we like or love, which stays with us! Time and personal growth have helped me see things differently.

Just forget & move on, you say?

Featured by ETWellness, posted in Finding My Place in Health & Wellness, I Feel Good!, Uncategorized

Have you ever wished people would forget the past and just move on? I sometimes thought this as I listened to the drama of family, friends, and co-workers. I now see this is easier said than done! One sunny afternoon, this thought resonated with me.

While running errands, I suddenly stopped and parked in front of a home I once lived. I had great dreams, hopes, and plans when I moved in! But I was also in the same position as most people: starting a new school experience, a new job, or even a new relationship. You know that place where we sit with so much hope and promise before life happens!

I soon compared my dreams and hopes to my actual experience. I had good times and success along the way, but I also endured a few setbacks and disappointments too. At one point, I even wondered if I had initially made the right decision to move here! I left my car to walk and ponder this period in my life.

Suddenly, I had an epiphany! My experience was necessary and got me to this point in my life! This home and neighborhood came with valuable lessons and personal growth. And yes, I could say the same about my university days, my job, and my relationships along the way. They represented key moments in my life, and so I’m glad I never missed them! I realized it’s not wise to second-guess and obsess about the past! I drove away convinced I should focus on the present and future.

The emotional dimension of wellness offers a window into the heart, mind, and soul. Indeed, I sometimes sort through old messy thoughts but inevitably focus on today and tomorrow. I also ask myself hard questions and face the answers with honesty and courage. Finally, I discovered this practice allows me to process everything and move on!

So, who are you following?

Featured by ETWellness, posted in Finding My Place in Health & Wellness, Smart and Well

It’s good to hang out with people and groups that share your passion for wellness. To start, they offer advocacy, education, networking, and research. As I listened to a Global Wellness Institute Master Class on “2022 Trends Making Headlines,” I realized how much I value this connection. I listened intently as self-described “wellness nerds” spoke my language and shared my desire to understand the big and small picture.

What trends are there in 2022? A panel of wellness pros offered an update on the economy, industry jobs, return of red-hot leisure travel, metaverse in wellness, and growing consumer interest in the environment and sustainability. In addition, I was quite intrigued by the generational issues of Gen-Z, Gen-X, Millennials, and Boomers. They all think differently and have fascinating consumer profiles.

Experts addressed shifts in attitude about work, careers, money, and much more. Consumers once viewed wellness as a luxury, and now there’s a demand for democratization and accessibility. Indeed, we all want to be well! In addition, there is a greater interest in travel close to home, local destinations, and “micro-focused” community activities. Finally, a few speakers addressed the desire for less attention to fakery and obsession with body image in men and women.

Presenters looked into their crystal balls for 2023. The buzzwords for 2023 include sustainability, realness, connection with something significant (like spirituality?), hunger for more social connections, and an intense need for workplace-inspired wellness post-pandemic: For info, visit: https://www.globalwellnesssummit.com.

It’s wise to connect with professional groups that support you. Indeed, there is an endless number of professional groups, associations, and experts who offer good reliable information. However, the Global Wellness Institute (GWI) is one that keeps me challenged, committed, engaged, and excited about my journey.