Archive for the 'Healthy Eating & Living' Category
by Alyssa Russo
Laughter can reduce stress and pain. If you are dealing with an illness or going through a tough time in your life, laughing can help to boost your mood and improve your immune system.
It can also create bonds with people, which is also good for your health. When you are laughing, you are most likely not thinking about the pain or suffering you are experiencing for a few moments. Although if you have certain types of pain, such as sore stomach muscles or pain related to surgery, laughing may make it worse. I’ve laughed so hard one time that my stomach hurt the next day. It felt as if I did a bunch of stomach crunches.
Laughing is especially good for emotional pain. It can help to boost your mood and connect with other people. It can take your mind off of negative things for the time being.
Here are a few ways to get some good laughs.
Watch a funny movie.
Read a good joke book or look for some funny jokes online.
Think about something embarrassing that happened to you in the past. It may not have been funny when it happened, but maybe you can look back on those moments now and have a good laugh. For example, did you ever go out with the price tag still on your clothes? Did you ever walk out of a public restroom with a tail made out of toilet paper? I once had a coworker who showed up at work with two different shoes on and she didn’t realize it until she got to the office. We both couldn’t stop laughing for awhile. Sometimes we do silly and embarrassing things, but looking back on them can give us a good chuckle.
Go to a comedy club or watch stand up comedians on television.
Go online and go to YouTube and look up some old funny clips of tv shows that you used to watch. You can also find a variety of funny things to look at on YouTube.
Spend some time with funny people that you know. Do you know someone who is always joking around and making people laugh? Call them on the phone for a few good laughs or invite them over and enjoy their company.
Bring out your inner child. Do things that you wouldn’t expect to do as an adult. If you are able to, you could jump rope, play hide and seek with your significant other or your own children, play a game of hopscotch, run through a sprinkler. I’m sure those things you did as a child will make you laugh if you do them as an adult.
Dress up in silly hats, wigs or clothes. Do you have any old and outdated clothes? Dress yourself up in something funny and make other people laugh as well. You don’t have to wear it out, just around the house for a few laughs.
Don’t be afraid to let loose and get downright silly. Everyone has their own sense of humor and things that they find to be funny. Make up silly things off the top of your head. Try to write your own jokes, even if they don’t make sense.
Read the comics in the newspaper.
Have you ever gotten into a fight with someone and either of you used humor as a way to resolve the fight? Laughter can reduce anger and stress and can help you to get along better with others.
Whatever it is that you decide to do to get yourself laughing, remember that by laughing you are doing your body and mind a lot of good. So go ahead and enjoy a few good laughs!
Alyssa Russo is a freelance writer who believes that “tough situations don’t last, but tough people do.” She also knows how to enjoy a good laugh!
March 25 2010 | Healthy Eating & Living and Power Boost: April 2010 and Your Physical Self | 1 Comment »
By J. E. Davidson
As women, we are usually the caretakers of our families. Husbands, children, elderly parents, and sometimes other family members depend upon us to help them with their daily needs. Employers expect us to fulfill our job requirements. The demands that are made upon us often leave us with little time to take care of our own needs. We become emotionally stressed and physically exhausted, and our health suffers as a result.
We must become proactive in taking care of ourselves, and our own emotional and physical health must become a priority. As women, we must educate ourselves about what we must do to retain our own optimal well-being. Our attitudes and actions can determine whether we struggle through life or enjoy a vital, healthy and rewarding existence.
Having a regular healthcare provider in whom you have confidence is an important first step, but educating yourself on health issues that may affect you can alert you to early warning signs that may need addressed before your yearly checkup is due, or you have an emotional breakdown. Research women’s health issues online, or through non-profit and government agencies.
Bring research material with you when you visit your physician, and be prepared to ask questions. And ask lots of questions! You may want to know about the prescriptions your doctor gives: Is there a suitable generic? What side effects may you expect? Is there an alternative treatment that does not involve medication? You may want to ask about follow-up treatments, the length of recovery time that may be expected, or other issues concerning your health. A quality physician will take time to explain the results of tests, procedures and treatment options thoroughly, and answer any questions that you may have.
Being proactive in your health care involves more than just having a yearly physical check-up, and making healthy diet and lifestyle choices. We must take responsibility for our own emotional health. Having a positive mental attitude and managing stress in a healthy way has powerful anti-aging effects on our bodies.
Stress is a part of life that we can’t avoid but we can either allow it to manifest itself with physical and emotional symptoms, or we can take control of the situation when people, events, and situations make excessive demands upon us. Setting realistic goals and determining whether there is anything we can do to change the situation can keep stress from taking over our lives. Don’t sweat the small stuff, just let it slide! Prioritize responsibilities instead of becoming overwhelmed with too much to do, and don’t be afraid to say no when you already have a full schedule.
Take a few minutes every day to de-stress! Physical exercise is known to relieve stress. A simple walk in the park will do, you don’t need to run a marathon! Take a long, hot soak in the tub with your favorite bath oil after the kids are in bed. Whatever it is that relaxes you, set aside a time each day when you can indulge in your favorite tension-relieving pastime.
Our soul, our inner essence, is unique to each of us and requires nurturing to remain healthy. It is our self-awareness, and defines the values by which we think, feel, and live. Spiritual health can be found by tapping into a source of energy that brings us love, hope, optimism and empowerment. Whatever our religious beliefs are, spirituality and physical health are linked. A healthy spirit can reduce depression and self-destructive behaviors (smoking, drug and alcohol dependence, and suicide for example), boost the immune system, and create a more satisfying life.
By having a proactive attitude about our physical, mental, and spiritual health we can create healthier and more fulfilling lives for ourselves and may also inspire our family, especially our daughters, to adopt this attitude for themselves.
J.E. Davidson is self-employed as a secondhand goods merchant and writer, married with four adult children and many grandchildren
March 01 2010 | Healthy Eating & Living and Power Boost: March 2010 and Your Physical Self | 2 Comments »
By Crystal Smith
Eating nutritiously while hurrying through our daily schedule can be a challenge.
Between being on the road, or being rushed through our lunch hours – it is easy to forsake nutrition. However, there are some simple and helpful guidelines on ways to increase your healthy eating. Here are some suggestions and guidelines to help you while eating on the run:
While eating in sit-down restaurants:
1) More and more traditional sit-down style restaurants are offering up healthy eating meals. Order:
a. Steamed veggie platters,
b. Salads,
c. Soups,
d. Low fat dishes. Many eateries devote an entire menu to low fat and/or healthy eating options.
e. Broiled meats
f. Tomato bases instead of cream
If you are unsure of ingredients, ask your server. They should be knowledgeable about menu items.
Many sit-down restaurant meals can be ready in 15 minutes. Order carryout.
2) Order all dressings and condiments on the side. This way you control the amount you would like. This helps in the calorie counting, also.
a. A wonderful salad dressing to be enjoyed consists of simply squeezing a fresh tangerine or orange over your greens.
b. Ask for some fresh orange, lemon, or lime to squeeze over your entrée. The citric acid will offset any saltiness. Plus, it adds taste!
c. Order low fat vinaigrette dressing for your salad.
d. Have your toast or bread served dry, spread your own butter or spread on it. This is when you ask for the butter on the side.
Ordering condiments on the side is an easy way to enjoy healthy eating on the run.
3) If soup is to your liking, choose a non-creamy one such as minestrone, bean, or veggie. Creamy soups are traditionally high in fat and calories. Try egg drop soup (Chinese) or miso (Japanese) for variety. In fact, egg drop soup is considered a ‘free food’ in meal planning. This means low calories.
4) Baked potatoes are another great idea for healthy eating on the run. Enjoy a topping of steamed broccoli and onion. Or, for a complete protein meal pour some baked beans over the baked potato.
a. A very simple and great way to enjoy a baked potato is to simply spritz some butter on it. Then, sprinkle some garlic powder.
Healthy eating guidelines in fast food restaurants:
a. Order broiled chicken sandwiches with fresh veggies on them.
b. Order extra tomatoes for your sandwich.
c. Order a baked potato instead of French fries.
d. Order a salad. Watch out for the dressing, though.
e. Order a low fat salad dressing. Or, order lemon slices.
f. Order fresh fruit instead of sugar-laden desserts.
Healthy eating guidelines for Home preparation:
Of course, the easiest way to enjoy eating healthy on the run is to prepare your food beforehand at home. This will provide you with total control over the ingredients. You will know what is in your food. You also will have control over the portion size, taste, and cost. Schedule time for it.
Here are some easy suggestions and guidelines for healthy eating on the run that you can prepare at home:
a. Mix some fresh herbs with freshly squeezed juice for a low calorie dressing. Store in an airtight container.
b. An apple with peanut butter.
c. Wholegrain sandwich of tuna and mustard.
d. Plain yogurt with fresh fruit.
e. Hummus on either pita bread, English muffin, or fresh veggies..etc.
f. Creamed soup using pureed tofu instead of heavy cream
g. List goes on and on for healthy eating on the run…
These guidelines for eating healthy while on the run are easy to follow. Eating healthy is easier than it used to be, and getting easier every day. Go for it and enjoy!!
January 05 2010 | Healthy Eating & Living and Power Boost: January 2010 and Your Physical Self | No Comments »
Get Focused and Get Results! Body Image Motivator Dr. Joy Ohayia, founder and President of QuantumQuest knows how to do both. After 20 years of keeping herself fit, Dr. Ohayia founded QuantumQuest to provide natural holistic, nutrition and fitness programs to clients. In her late 40’s, this super fit, busy wife and mother of two teenage sons is a walking advertisement for her business.
Dr. Ohayia is passionate about motivating people towards a natural hygienic system lifestyle and has a unique approach. She provides a fully comprehensive program for her private, virtual, and corporate clients allowing them to achieve and maintain their wellness goals. As a certified member of the American Fitness Professionals and Associates, Dr. Ohayia has professional certifications in the areas of Weight Management, Nutrition and Wellness, and Personal Training.
Dr. Ohayia is the author of Don’t Let “IT” Get You!: An Empowering Health and Fitness Guide for Women . This complete guide encourages physical and emotional health and shows readers how to breakthrough obstacles and people who hinder them from health and happiness. Joy leveraged her experience from executive level positions at AT&T and Merrill Lynch in “Blueprint for Success”, where she provides a roadmap to success and encourages readers to find their passion while doing so.
Dr. Joy Ohayia holds a doctorate degree in Natural Health and Holistic Nutrition from the University of Natural Health. A graduate of Stony Brook University and Rutgers University, Joy received Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in applied math and statistics. During these years, Joy (Enoch) Ohayia, achieved numerous accomplishments in the sport of Track and Field, earning four individual records for sprinting, one of which still remains unbroken over 25 years later. She continues to run three miles a day, even with her busy schedule, and is a nationally ranked sprinter with the master’s division of the USATF (USA Track and Field).
Dr. Ohayia is a much sought after health and fitness expert. She has provided tips to numerous audiences through speaking engagements and various media outlets.
May 18 2009 | Healthy Eating & Living and Power Boost: June 2009 and Your Physical Self | No Comments »
by GiGi Sampson
Humor me . . . blink your eyes!
Do you know how fast the blink of an eye really is? Research indicates we blink approximately 12 times per minute and on average a blink takes approximately 300 to 400 MILLISECONDS. That’s pretty darn quick!
Consider this - in the blink of an eye , any one of us could have our lives change forever. In the blink of an eye , any one of us could have a stroke or someone we care about could have one.
Did you know strokes are our nation’s 3rd leading cause of death?
What exactly is a stroke? A stroke occurs when a blood vessel is either blocked by a clot or ruptures, preventing blood from carrying oxygen and vital nutrients to parts of the brain. When that happens, the area of the brain that doesn’t receive blood begins to die and the body functions controlled by that area become hindered.
There are three critical things I want you to take away from this article:
I want you to be able to:
- RECOGNIZE signals
- RESPOND quickly
- REDUCE risks
Let’s look at signals so we can RECOGNIZE them:
• Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body.
• Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding.
• Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes.
• Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination.
• Sudden, severe headache with no known cause.
One evening I was on the phone with my best friend (age 51). I’d called to see how she was doing because she was having some severe health issues and was scheduled for surgery. She didn’t sound like herself; her speech was somewhat slurred and she complained about the lack of control in one of her legs. Back in the dark recesses of my brain something nagged at me but I remembered she’d just told me she’d taken some pain medication the doctor had prescribed. I decided the slurred speech and loss of coordination in her leg were due to the pain med. Perhaps if I’d been quicker to recognize and acknowledge those signals and respond , she might have only had one stroke . . . instead of three! Fortunately, she recovered and is in good health today. She still has slight trouble with the coordination of that leg from time to time but she’s very lucky not to have had more devastating and lingering consequences.
If you ever suspect someone is having a stroke, please RESPOND quickly. Time is of the essence! The shorter the time from stroke to treatment – the shorter the recovery time and the lower the risk for lasting damage. PLEASE KEEP IN MIND THAT THE SIGNALS & SYMPTOMS CAN GO AWAY AS FAST AS THEY APPEARED. Remember, “Time lost is brain lost .”
Are we at risk? Let’s see.
The American Stroke Association lists the following risk factors:
Unchangeable/uncontrollable factors include:
a. Chances for having a stroke more than doubles each decade after age 55 BUT MAKE NO MISTAKE – STROKES DO NOT RESPECT AGE – children as young as 11 years of age have had strokes!
b. Men are more prone to strokes than women; HOWEVER, more women die from stroke than men.
c. Risk of stroke is greater for those who have parents, grandparents, or siblings that have had strokes.
d. People who have had a stroke, heart attack or TIAs (Transient Ischemic Attacks) have a higher risk factor than those who have not. TIAs are “warning strokes” that produce stroke-like symptoms but typically leave no lasting damage.
Good news! Some risk factors that can be changed and/or controlled:
a. High blood pressure
b. Cigarette smoking
c. High cholesterol
d. Diabetes
e. Heart disease or arterial disease
f. Sickle cell anemia
g. Poor diets such as those high in saturated fats, trans fats, cholesterol and sodium *
h. Obesity / lack of physical activity
I have both controllable and uncontrollable risk factors – how about you?
What we can do to REDUCE our risk of having a stroke?
The American Stroke Association tells us . . . “Exercise your POWER!”
• P ut down cigarettes and stop smoking.
• O bserve advice from your doctor and know your family’s medical history.
• W atch your weight and be physically active at least 30 minutes on most days.
• E at healthy; avoid foods high in saturated and trans-fats, cholesterol and sodium.
• R egulate high blood pressure and diabetes.
What can we do to help knock stroke out of its “3rd place position?”
1) KNOWLEDGE IS POWER! Learn all you can about strokes so you can RECOGNIZE the signals and RESPOND. Visit stroke.org, strokeassociation.org
2) Help raise awareness – educate your friends, family and co-workers so we can all REDUCE our risk.
Strokes occur “In the Blink of an Eye.” Please for yourself and for the people you care about, be ready to:
- -RECOGNIZE signals
- - RESPOND quickly
- - REDUCE risks
If you have comments or questions for the author, you can email GiGi at tidbitz2009@yahoo.com .
May 18 2009 | Healthy Eating & Living and Power Boost: June 2009 and Your Physical Self | No Comments »
