Uncategorized – Page 3 – Live&Work 4healthyu

Second Chances

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

We love “second chances” in this country. But sadly, they sometimes elude people we love. We’ve all lost family and friends early, quickly, and unexpectedly. So, let’s pause and take a look at what a precious second chance is and what it could mean for us.

After the recent sudden loss of a few family members, I concluded that some people don’t get second chances! Indeed, it was too late for them by the time they arrived at the emergency room. They didn’t arrive in time for state-of-art trauma care or have another chance to improve or change their situation.

A friend spoke about the hesitancy of some, particularly men, to even go to the doctor! Some are just scared and refuse to visit the doctor unless their pain is 911 or excruciating! He recalled how his dad used old-school homemade salves to manage pain. Unfortunately, his dad’s situation reminded me of my own family.

But hey, “second chances” could be proactive measures we take that promote optimal health. It could be conducting online research on a health issue or scheduling an annual physical. Your second chance could be a flu shot, a vaccine, or taking prescribed medications for high blood pressure and diabetes. Perhaps your second chance is an open, honest talk with your spouse, or together with your doctor. Maybe it’s a colonoscopy, physical therapy, or routine lab work.

Our “second chance” isn’t limited to a dramatic lifesaving trip to the ER! In fact, every day offers an opportunity to make intelligent choices and decisions about our health. So, I must ask, how are you managing a new day and the opportunity for a “second chance” in your life?

Finding a new “Dr. Welby!”

April 16, 2022 by ETWellness, posted in Uncategorized

We love our creature comforts, including favorite foods, clothes, furniture, or whatever you hold dear. Dare I say it? One of my creature comforts included my long-time primary care doctor! Creature comforts make us feel good and comfortable, but have you ever considered welcoming a new physician (PCP)?

I believe excellent primary care is critical and the center of all things in my wellness journey. I’ve been fortunate to have doctors who are easy to talk to and available. But as my insurance changed, I had to change doctors twice in the last few years. These adjustments were stressful, considering my previous physician was mine for more than ten years. Unfortunately, the Pandemic didn’t help me cope with change.

But I’ve noticed a few surprising things about changing doctors. First, our country has many excellent doctors with diverse backgrounds, interests, and specialties. The last two doctors brought fresh, new insight into my health care. They made me think (and rethink) what medications I use and how well exercise and nutrition support my wellness journey. They ordered new and different lab work and testing. We talked, and they challenged me with probing questions and offered other therapies, not clinging to old diagnoses and treatments.

My old primary doctor was a terrific physician, but the change was good for me. I feel comfortable and safe with new doctors. If you aren’t familiar, “Marcus Welby, M.D.,” was a beloved, popular classic tv family doctor with a great bedside manner. He was the old standard for a “good” doctor. But hey, I’m good without him. How about you? Are you ready for a new doctor?

Grief

Featured by ETWellness, posted in Uncategorized

We all have a personal story about grief. We have lost people we loved or will in time. That was the premise of one speaker at a recent Toastmasters event.

She spoke about the pain of loss, shared a profile of loved ones, and the motivation behind many new activities in her life now. These helped fill some of the space. Grief is not easy to discuss, and my friend drew us in with light humor.

As she spoke, I couldn’t help but think about the family and friends I had lost recently and even decades ago! Yet, there is still space in my heart and vivid memory of smiles, laughter, and many large and small idiosyncrasies! A good example is my dad, who died thirty years ago. I remember his voice, tall stature, and many funny and wise sayings.

Today’s grown-up lesson is that grief is real and shared, and everyone we love leaves something precious behind! Just stop and think about a relay race and the passing of the baton. Our loved ones ran hard, lived as long and fully as possible, but ultimately stopped and passed on the baton.

I’m suddenly smiling, thinking about the “gifts” of so many. I feel I can go on and live my life, empowered, having known and loved many beautiful people who graced my life.

You said that right!

April 2, 2022April 2, 2022 by ETWellness, posted in Uncategorized

You make a life out of what you have, not what you’re missing.
M. Howard, State Farm Agent

Sometimes I hear a great quote, and it sticks like glue in my mind. It sounds like it was written just for me! It speaks to concerns I have or offers wisdom, insight, and clarity that allows me to rise above the moment, be more intelligent, and stronger.

I frequently receive a good newsletter or LinkedIn post from my insurance agent. She shares just like everyone else! Her creative messages make me ponder insurance choices, work-life balance, and generally making good choices in my life.

This quote resonated with me last month. Perhaps it’s another way of saying, “The grass is always greener…” so appreciate what you have! Being a goal-oriented type with aspirations in all dimensions of my life, I often think about what else I want and what is missing. I need the reminder: my current time is sweet, safe, serene, and okay for now. In our crazy world, so many people would love a calm, ordinary, and uneventful day.

Something Old & Something New!

February 13, 2022March 17, 2022 by ETWellness, posted in Uncategorized

My mom used to say that I’d never stop learning in my lifetime. She was so right! I couldn’t help but think that as I worked on promoting an upcoming nonprofit event while learning to use new software. On Super Bowl weekend, I took a deep dive into Canva and saw so many ways to be creative, and not enough time, money, and patience!

I was using the “free” version and found myself more excited about paid templates! It’s nice when someone else has done most of the work! I reached out to an experienced friend who is helping me put the finishing touches on my project. My friend loves to dabble in technology on a shoe-string budget! Sometimes, another set of eyes and a fresh perspective makes all the difference in the world.

When it comes to promoting my nonprofit, I’m told my message should be strategic, simple, and succinct. Most people have little patience for more than that! I get it!

So, as I look ahead to Monday and Valentine’s Day, I’ll again keep things simple and try something new. Something old: Happy Valentine’s Day! And something new today:

Photo by Dario Fernandez Ruz on Pexels.com

P.S. Sorry, I tried to add a countdown clock for Valentine’s Day! The “free” version doesn’t work here. Oh well, enjoy your day!

The Gift

January 17, 2022January 18, 2022 by ETWellness, posted in Uncategorized

An old friend gave me a gift that I’ll treasure for a lifetime. It was a small book, only one hundred and three pages, focusing on the words of Rev. Martin Luther King.

Every year, on his birthday, I sit in an easy chair and read it. And every year, I’m overwhelmed by the passion and wisdom of MLK. I’m astounded by his ability to put the past, present, and future in perspective. The civil rights challenges he speaks about involve people, their quality of life, and health and wellbeing. In fact, if I’ve learned anything, every single dimension of life is uniquely impacted.

I wish I could sit in an old church pew and listen to an MLK program. I spent my last MLK day like this two years ago, in church with fantastic music, inspiring speakers, and a family-style church meal afterward. I was a guest at a tiny Baptist church in Virginia, but I never felt more at home.

Today, I’ll simply enjoy the “gift” of my book and other great media commemorating the life of MLK. But mostly, I’ll think more about the man, his words, and his vision. I’ll also think about my purpose and the role I want to play wherever life takes me. Happy Birthday, Martin Luther King!

It’s that wonderful time of the year!

December 29, 2021December 29, 2021 by ETWellness, posted in Uncategorized

Call me old school, but I love sending and receiving holiday cards! Yes, I know it’s cheaper, easier and faster to send a text or an email. I hold on to some traditions.

As I stood in line masked at the post office, I thought about all of this as I grudgingly purchased expensive postage stamps. The Pandemic would be a great cover if I wanted to just run to my car and drive away! But every year, I look forward to decorating my home and displaying holiday cards.

This year, the message in one card I received genuinely resonated with me. I thought about my list and the wide variety of people I send cards to every year. I haven’t seen or spoken to some people in way too long, but I still feel connected. So, this year, I sent out cards as usual but made a point to call more folks later. I felt a stronger need to strengthen my bond and connections. This card (below) helped me understand why.

I wish you a happy and healthy holiday season as I “regift” my favorite holiday greeting card. Creative regifting is another holiday tradition in my family. Enjoy!

Let’s take a break!

November 20, 2021November 20, 2021 by ETWellness, posted in Uncategorized

My college alumni association hosted a first-ever virtual coffee class courtesy of a Minnesota alumna. A friendly guest barista also walked us through the flavor profile of coffee (nicely gifted and delivered to everyone!) and shared what people should look for when they are tasting a new type of java.

I’m a simple lover of ground roast with one easy, no-brainer coffee maker! I thought the presentation was a bit pretentious but listened anyway. You see, I’m often fascinated as I observe folks order a dizzying variety of drinks, including expressos, exotic blends, lattes, macchiatos, etc. Our barista shared “essential” gadgets one must have to make perfect drinks. This was another memorable moment on Zoom! Honestly, I love coffee, but I never dreamed anyone could have so much to say about coffee!

Given my budget, I buy ground coffee at Walmart and simply store it in the freezer. So, a dark roast coffee serves my need for a daily perk or as a hot, sweet anytime beverage. In contrast, the barista offered, “Great quality coffee beans (like theirs) should be grounded and brewed within twenty minutes to experience the most robust flavors!”

I enjoy Folgers Classic Roast most days. But, hey, don’t judge coffee snobs! Life is still good for me. Like everyone, I’m enjoying my coffee my way.

Photo by Chevanon Photography on Pexels.com

Seasonal Blues

November 8, 2021November 8, 2021 by ETWellness, posted in Uncategorized

I had two oddly different weeks and one mind to process it. We all have days and weeks like this. What can you learn from these times? For me, a lot and I must share!

Last week I managed an annoying cold. These days, it’s easy to worry if it’s more given Corvid-19. I had a blasé attitude. Usually, I welcome the vibrant colors of Fall, but I only see clouds, rain, and wet leaves on the sidewalk. I ignored my phone, locked the door, and hid from trick or treaters, simply watching tv and isolating myself from the world. Before I forget, check out this timely article on so many people with colds: https://www.nytimes.com/2021/11/06/style/does-everyone-have-a-cold-right-now.html

I approached week two feeling better and anxious to get outside. I walked into an area of town full of new housing and commercial development. I was suddenly overwhelmed, seeing so much that was new, hip, and fresh! I stopped to stretch and meditate in the park and grabbed my phone to capture fall foliage. I texted and shared my “art” with friends. Next, I stopped at the library for books. Suddenly, I could see so many possibilities for a great Fall!

I gave myself a timeout and then embraced life after some rest. Both were essential. While outside, I saw that life simply went on without me! Once I left my island, it felt good to be alive and engaged.

**A Walk In the Park – Cell Phone Photography – A Lemon Lover**

“Enough!”

October 29, 2021 by ETWellness, posted in Uncategorized

I sank deeper and deeper into my chair as I listened to a Wellness expert on Zoom. I was tired of hearing about burnout, how awful and widespread it is among WFH staffers, essential workers, and everyone during the Pandemic! I wanted her to focus more on recovery and resiliency with real solutions.

I’m not naïve; I know a presenter must identify the problem first and then talk about solutions. For example, she addressed burnout (in many well-curated slides) but was it necessary to spend so much time on the obvious?

I would have loved to hear more about resiliency practices and methods. In the Zoom chat box, the presenter solicited good audience feedback. Let’s hear more about creative exercise, journaling, gratitude, meditation, etc. I wanted to hear about work/life balance, changing jobs, honest talks with bosses, and setting boundaries with work and family.

I would’ve welcomed a deep dive into mandated family medical leave, universal health care, worker retraining programs, and increasing wages. I know the topic of resiliency is enormous! I wish our speaker had boldly gone here and stayed longer!

I left the webinar minutes before the close. I felt drained and uninspired. The speaker rushed to finish, skipped more slides, and promised to forward a copy of her big presentation – a consolation prize, I guess.

Hats off to the National Wellness Institute (NWI) for the member webinar, but I need to focus on where I am now – ready to move forward after my share of burnout. I want to concentrate on solutions and practices that work. But it seems I’ll also have to work on my patience first! I know we’re not done with the Pandemic and hardly done with burnout.