ETWellness

Families & Wellness

Featured by ETWellness, posted in Caught In the middle, Finding My Place in Health & Wellness, Uncategorized

This post isn’t about families sharing healthy meals and exercising together. Honestly, we can’t talk about wellness and ignore challenging family dynamics that often directly impact our own. We’re social beings and connected to someone from birth. So, while bingeing on an old TV drama recently, I could see fascinating ways families strengthen and hinder our wellness.

I watched Brothers & Sisters, a 2006 drama with an ensemble cast featuring Sally Field and Calista Flockhart. Calista played a fiery, conservative talk-show host, and Field was her equally opinionated, liberal mom. But unfortunately, politics can bring out the worst in families! Wonderful gatherings quickly descended into battles with wounded egos.

Besides politics, there are other potential minefields in families. For example, just like this tv family, today’s families sometimes confront issues and questions involving abuse, divorce, faith, money, sexuality, etc. Any one of these issues and many others test the strength of family bonds.

Birth order offers a fascinating wrinkle too. The oldest felt pressures and responsibilities their younger siblings didn’t have. And, of course, those in the middle felt abandoned or ignored! But amazingly, resentments also surfaced based on childhood memories, and some memories are decades old!

Being a television show, Brothers & Sisters dramatically introduced family secrets, or those parts of our lives long-buried. But, of course, this family had big, juicy secrets and no filter! Every secret saw the light of day, and there was no respect for privacy or boundaries in the family.

As we all traverse life, sometimes we do so with imperfect family memories and relationships. Yet, being wellness-focused makes us want to live better despite the past. You may conclude that your wellness journey is more important. Indeed, I hope we all smartly navigate our family drama and history and focus on healthy, loving connections. Just look beyond annoyances and distractions, and see clearly.

Hey, are you all in?

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

It’s easy to be wellness-obsessed and a bit poor in this country! I drew this conclusion after attending a health and wellness conference. I encountered many folks passionate about products and services but struggling to make the living they want and deserve.

Let’s face it; wellness professionals have knowledge, products, and services that could enhance and save lives! They believe in their message, but the financial rewards may not come until later. Some wellness professionals work two jobs, side hustles, and long hours. During the first year of the Pandemic, we saw severe shortfalls in benefits, including paid personal time, sick leave, and health insurance. In addition, some businesses closed forever.

The conference included wellness professionals from A to Z, such as exercise instructors, nurses, x-ray technicians, massage therapists, life coaches, personal trainers, physical therapists, mental health workers, nurses, teachers, etc. Honestly, it would take a big tent to include every wellness professional! But, we know they touch the mind, body, and spirit of clients, customers, and patients every day. So, their connection to wellness is professional and quite personal too.

But I can see the determination and grit of people here. Wellness professionals face challenges in their work but continue to believe in it and want to help others. They continue to work hard, refine skills, improve sales pitches, and focus on the future. They believe in what they do, manage setbacks, and possess remarkable patience for the long haul. I can’t help but think I’m in great company!

Show me what you can do!

Featured by ETWellness, posted in Fitness, I Feel Good!, Lifestyles, Uncategorized

He moved with the confidence and athleticism of a pro, running and jumping higher than ever! He’d also always stop, turn to acknowledge fans, and strike a pose! But there were no fans! No sir, it was just me, his annoyed little sister, watching my brother bask in the joy and magic of his latest pair of new sneakers. Many years later, I now understand.

Yes, I admit I feel more comfortable and energetic with new sneakers! But, of course, I don’t purchase them as often as my brother did, so necessity wins out when I do. I usually know I’m ready for new kicks when my feet feel the ground, my shoes are embarrassingly worn, or I must adjust and retie the strings for support.

Recently, I delayed purchasing sneakers as I stayed closer to home during the Pandemic. I wasn’t visiting the gym, so I didn’t need to worry about my clothes and shoes. I thought my old stuff was fine at home or in the neighborhood. In time, I realized I was wrong.

I discovered that purchasing new sneakers and apparel helped me begin to make exercise a priority. But I didn’t run out and break the bank! There’s a lot to sort through with affordable price points. Instead, I found that fresh colors, styles, and fabrics make my day and motivate me to get up and move!

My brother loved new sneakers long before “Just Do It” marketing campaigns, celebrity spokespersons, and many red-hot brands. He wore inexpensive sneakers (thanks, mom and dad!) and still felt like a champion or someone who could be! Funny, I get it now as I wear my new kicks. I completely understand why he was confident, happy, strong, and ready to take on the world!

Hey, please don’t rush me!

July 2, 2022 by ETWellness, posted in Uncategorized

Photo by Andrea Piacquadio on Pexels.com

When we think about health and wellness, people want to help and serve others or need help themselves! Yet, it is challenging in our world to escape creative and ever-present campaigns to promote and sell a vast range of products and services. The marketplace is alluring and overwhelming, but here are a few ideas to help you navigate.

First, I recently read a terrific post called DISCLOSURE. It suggested that as consumers, we must consider what relationship websites have with manufacturers, as they offer reviews of products. And have you considered the experience and credentials of the reviewer/promoter? Are there strong financial incentives? I spent years in the consumer protection/insurance space, so I can’t help but encourage consumers to be careful.

Second, a good EDUCATION is also essential. I love to start online with sources like WebMD, physician and hospital portals, and associations specific to health issues (such as the heart, lung, kidney, Alzheimer’s, etc.). You pay your taxes, so don’t forget to visit government agencies (websites) regulating and advancing public policy. You can also drop by your local library! Your librarian can help zero in on timely resources.

Third, PHONE A FRIEND! Most of us have trusted, clever, and even know-it-all friends! Perhaps they know an expert or another friend who can help. I remember being gung-ho to attend an expensive wellness conference and spa vacation. Friends helped me find options that fit my budget. I realized there was more than one answer for me and more than one product or service.

Many are overwhelmed by fancy websites with all the answers! So, the above measures aren’t exciting. But you can still take your time! There will always be another “perfect” product or service, primed to be pitched to you, just around the corner.

My Crystal Ball

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

In The Wizard of Oz, everyone is looking for something (courage, home, heart, wisdom), and I’m no different. So, if I could, I’d ask the big guy to tell me what’s next in my future?

After a year of blogging, I’m contemplating a new plan. My initial goal was to start writing. I brought into the Nike campaign, “Just do it!” But going forward, I want more than this. As I look at other blogs, I’m impressed. I see many smart, well-organized sites full of glitz, glam, and magnetic products and services. I wonder, should I up my game?

A simple blog initially appealed to me because I enjoy writing, researching, and discussing Health & Wellness issues. I love a deep dive into WebMD and Mayo Clinic websites. I’m excited by online newspapers and magazines that motivate me to share. Finally, a captivating webinar, a keynote address, or a conversation with a friend or family member moves me to act.

What’s next for me? I will continue to focus on a broader picture of H&W. I can dive deeply into one subject or be light, casual, and hopefully informing and persuasive on another. Frankly, after writing for a living and offering “Just the facts, mam,” it’s nice to have fun with it as a hobby. One organization I enjoy inspires writers by its very name, “Shut Up and Write!” Just do it, with no excuses! Yes, I want to do so, but be smarter about the process.

I could confess to the wizard that I have a not-so-secret dream of writing a novel. Ideas and characters are percolating in my mind! But, as they age, I’m drawn to people managing transitions, families, relationships, and work. So now, I’m content with my keyboard and imagination, one blog at a time.

Feeling good from head to toe!

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

I just “graduated” from physical therapy! Today, I’m feeling like a million bucks relative to the PHYSICAL, EMOTIONAL, and SPIRITUAL dimensions of wellness!

As I worked on the health challenge that brought me to physical therapy, I realized how much I missed the gym! Honestly, my exercise routine suffered a lot since Corvid. I didn’t feel comfortable in the health club and avoided mine for the last two-plus years.

Physical Therapy or “PT” helped reignite my excitement about exercising! It took me back to cardio (loving a great sweat!), stretching, and strength training. Suddenly, I could hear Patti Labelle in my ears, singing about my “New Attitude!” and that “I know where I’m going and I know what to do!” I’m now excited about smartly working out, and feeling that special “high” I missed. Oddly enough, I feel freer now and yet more grounded.

I normally go in a different direction with each post. For example, I recently completed one about how much I dreaded returning to physical therapy! So, this moment is about remembering the pure joy of exercise! But it’s also about having a deeper understanding of my experience, and response to the Pandemic. I know I’m not alone.

My graduation day didn’t include speeches, beautiful flowers, family gatherings, and gift cards! But I have to tell you that I loved my t-shirt (a parting gift!). Finally, I’m grateful for a more positive outlook on life, thankful for fabulous professional support, and I look forward to the future!

**Graduation T-Shirt From Physical Therapy**

Are you caught in the middle, again?

June 14, 2022June 27, 2022 by ETWellness, posted in Caught In the middle, Social, Uncategorized

I enjoy old episodes of the comedy, All in The Family. There’s nothing funnier than Archie and Mike, the father/son-in-law duo arguing and debating politics, race, history, education, or any subject. But, of course, both men believe he is right and doesn’t give an inch! Recently, I watched one show focused on the “messy middle” with new eyes.

We’ve all been in the “messy middle,” trying to understand opposing sides in arguments. The key parties could be spouses, children, or siblings. Perhaps the disagreement is between business colleagues, friends, and neighbors. You hear a compelling story and justification for their actions. So, who and what do you believe?

Now, back to Archie and Mike, who came from different places in life. One was conservative, and the other was liberal. One was older and the other a young man. In one of their biggest fights, the mother (Edith), always honest, was asked what started the fight. She was the only witness. Edith then shared a simple account that showed both men exaggerated and were fast and loose with the truth!

Have you ever found yourself in the messy middle trying to understand two heated positions? Have you ever suspected exaggeration from one or both parties? Have you been torn and conflicted? I have, and there was no laughter or cutting to a commercial break for me. Instead, I saw angry people and they hoped I’d take sides.

I’m learning to recognize the messy middle. It’s easy to make quick judgments and be wrong. And finally, I’ve discovered that people can see the same thing differently, the same fricking behavior! So, I like stepping back and allowing this moment to sink in. Suddenly, the middle (and my healthy emotional wellbeing) is not so messy.

Two Boys and a Bird

June 8, 2022 by ETWellness, posted in Uncategorized

I walked past a Two Men and a Truck and thought about summertime, the frenzy of people moving, and kids running and playing. This simple concept stuck with me. Oddly enough, this title is still appropriate and reflects what I observed and learned.

As I enjoyed a quick walk, Boy #1 suddenly appeared alongside me on his bike. I smiled and said hello to the little stranger, and he mentioned that another boy was in trouble! What kind of trouble, I asked? He said the boy had a bird and wouldn’t let it go! He said he told him to leave it alone, but he, Boy #2, wouldn’t listen. I assured him he’d done his best. Then, thinking about something on my stove, I said goodbye.

After I arrived home, I thought about Boy #1 and decided to check on Boy #2. So, I went in search of the boys. I soon discovered Boy #2 in the middle of the parking lot with his bike abandoned nearby. He held a tiny bird in the palms of his small hands, studying it intensely. He found the baby bird on the ground and believed it was still alive. I told him I doubted the bird would survive and suggested he move him out of the hot sun and place him on the grass. He did so and volunteered that help was on the way! I asked him to promise me he’d thoroughly wash his hands when he arrived home.

Help soon arrived in the form of a young mother and baby in a stroller. The mother picked up the bird in a paper towel and gingerly carried it over to a tree. She then supervised the burial of the bird in the leaves. Boy #1 continued to ride in small circles, watching everything.

I couldn’t help but think about both boys. Their reactions reflected their parent’s teachings. One boy was cautious, concerned, and kept a safe distance, and the other boy was fearless, curious, and focused on the bird. Yet, they both sought help from adults at this moment. The boys reminded me of how I grew up, cared about others, and learned to take risks.

What’s in a smile?

Featured by ETWellness, posted in Uncategorized

I thought I was just a good, educated consumer researching the backgrounds of potential new doctors. But I was also drawn to their smiles and lack of smiles. Yes, I realized a friendly smile was a tipping point as I made my choices! Am I crazy? Have you thought about the significance of a smile?

I’m drawn to a warm, inviting smile when working with medical professionals. The smile says, “come in, and you can trust me!” In contrast, a doctor with a long list of accomplishments and designations with a cold, stern, and unsmiling face tells me to keep my distance and not get too comfortable. But, honestly, beyond the medical community, I welcome openness and genuineness in the smiles of family and friends.

I’ve learned a smile can be alarmingly deceptive too, in my lifetime. Behind smiles, I’ve sensed insincerity, indifference, and a shocking lack of trustworthiness. In some, I’ve also discovered mockery, hostility, and cunning. Suddenly, my thoughts go to bullies, colleagues, politicians, and a few memorable salesmen.

I’m also more aware of the uncomfortable predicament of “unsmiling” people. I’ve known folks with dental problems, horrible teeth, or no teeth. Smiling is difficult and avoided. One of the best people I know comes to mind. After an accident, he was never one to smile and mastered a genuine tooth-less grin. I suspect we all know and love people who don’t smile or rarely share.

I considered majoring in “Human Development and Social Policy” in college, but I didn’t understand complicated human nature and interactions. Finally, a professor tried to explain how studying this area might help me in my career. As a collegiate, I was too naïve, but as an adult, I appreciated a smile and learned to look beyond it with greater understanding.

“Please, let me help you…”

Featured by ETWellness, posted in Lifestyles, Uncategorized

While this is the graduation season for students, I’m excited to be graduating soon from physical therapy! Seriously, let’s talk about physical therapy. Once again, I’ve discovered how important “PT” is after my body demands attention.

I recently met my new therapist. First, we spoke about why I came to therapy, she then instructed me to walk and observed my gait. Later, she proposed a treatment plan for my sore knees. I’ve had PT a few times and know that I always feel the worst before feeling better. So yes, I was feeling cynical and not happy to be back.

I dreaded the practice of prescribing lots of exercises with confusing instructions! I’m great at following directions in therapy, but I don’t do well at home. So, this time, my PT offered fewer exercises and focused on my mastery of a few. She also provided pictures, a mobile app, and a website. So, on my phone, computer, or smart tv, I could check-in, record my progress, and see each exercise performed slowly and flawlessly by a coach.

My therapy team is working to incorporate my exercises into my home exercise regimen. The student in me appreciates lessons in anatomy & physiology, and I enjoy enthusiastic teachers. While they frequently inquire about my comfort and pain level, they also remind me how amazing the body is and why specific movements are critical. As a result, I’m gaining greater flexibility, strength, and confidence in my mind and body.

I’m in awe of the patience, professionalism, and extensive training of physical therapists. I understand why adults must go back to basics, training the body to work again after illness and injury. Of course, we love to praise our excellent doctors and nurses, but don’t forget, physical therapists are heroes too!