Photo by Pragyan Bezbaruah on Pexels.com Over the last few weeks I have been pondering a difficult decision. With all the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic, I honestly do not know how I feel about my children returning to school – whether that means virtual learning or in the classroom. Many of these feeling came when […]
Did you know that 12 ounces of sweetened tea has 135 calories in it? Or that 12 ounces of regular soda has 136 calories? There is an alternative to these sugary drinks that can not only help you cut the calories but increase your overall well-being. The Ohio State University Extension has developed a campaign, […]
I don’t know about you, but 2018 was a whirlwind of a year for me! It was full of exciting events, like my younger son’s high school graduation, my daughter’s first year of high school and marching band, and several concerts that my husband and I attended. Professionally, I participated in a leadership program with […]
July 2, 2020 by bethstefura COVID-19 is the largest global disruption since World War II. Sudden illness, disability, death, financial insecurity, virtual graduations and postponed weddings are all traumatic events that some have experienced because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Trauma is experienced in many forms. Personal tragedy, violent crime, job loss, bullying, abuse, divorce, and […]
Friendship is one of the most elevating aspects of life. Besides fun and connection, friendship can provide important emotional and physical support. Friendship also plays a central role in our overall well-being. Recent studies suggest, “People who value social relationships are likelier to be happy than those who value achievements in other life domains, such […]
Posted in Healthy aging, retirement, finances, emotional health, tagged Exercise, healthy people, Journaling, morning routine, professional development, Reflection, self-care, Wellness on July 25, 2022| Leave a Comment » As the beginning of the school year quickly approaches, I’m reminded of my family’s rushed mornings out the door where I lack patience and feel frazzled. As […]
Good reasons to freeze-dry Freeze-drying has long been used by outdoor enthusiasts for lightweight snacks and complete meals on the trail; but did you know freeze-dried foods are also great for quick and healthy snacks, traveling, easy meal preparation, emergency preparedness, and even homemade pet food. Freeze-drying is a terrific way to reduce food waste […]
Today is often considered the “unofficial” start to summer. That means longer days and warmer weather for getting outside. However, this summer brings a new and unsettling guest: COVID-19. To help you stay safe while you are outdoors, the Ohio Department of Health and the National Recreation and Park Association have made the following recommendations: […]
Based on the title of my blog, you might think it’s focused on yoga, tai chi, or some other form of gentle movement often associated with mindfulness. While all of these can be beneficial, mindful movement can include much more. As a runner, I have struggled with an Achilles tendon injury for years. There have […]
Have you ever been at the beach, a park, or another open space and been mesmerized by people moving and swaying their body in a meditative effortless flow and wondered what they were doing? Chances are they were practicing the art of tai chi. The use of tai chi originated in ancient China and is […]
I’m sure you’ve seen the bumper sticker . . . . this vehicle stops at all garage and/or yard sales. Garage and yard sales are as American as “apple pie”; benefitting the seller by getting rid of things no longer wanted while the buyer may find items he/she wants or needs at a reasonable price. […]
Holly N. Bandy, Extension Educator, M.Ed, CHES (Certified Health Education Specialist), Ohio State University Extension, Stark County. Her specializations include health and wellness, prevention education, and community health. She is passionate about health and wellness and helping people understand and experience how it can positively impact one’s physical and emotional well-being. In Holly’s free time, […]
Nutrition and physical activity are key components to a healthy lifestyle. However, mental activity is another factor that plays an important role in a healthy lifestyle, as well as healthy brain aging. Mental activity maintains cognitive health. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, there are things we can do be doing to help reduce the risk […]
Posted in Healthy aging, retirement, finances, emotional health, Healthy People, Mindfulness, tagged biophilia, gardening, home, indoor design, Love, natural products, nature, nature and health, outdoors, Plants, smells, trees on September 11, 2023| Leave a Comment » “Study nature, love nature, stay close to nature. It will never fail you.” Frank Lloyd Wright If you were […]
