Simple Healthy Fun Boost

What on earth is it this time? Well, this will be a brief and to the point article much like many of the other posts. It is something I would love to do more often and something that I plan to do even more - from here on. It requires a bit of your time but it will be worth every second that you can share.

* Call someone who you know is sick just to check in
* Visit your elderly family members, let them know that you care
* If you are unable to visit, call or send a card
* Check in with your elderly neighbors, see if they need something from the store
while you go out. Offer to help them if it's snowing
* If you have a family member in a nursing home or an assisted living facility be
be sure to visit as often as possible - it keeps the staff on their toes :-)
* Whenever you visit, discuss the latest news and be engaging.
* Laugh a lot!

These suggestions will not only lift the spirits of the person who you are interacting with but it will also boost your mind, body and spirit. It is a wonderful exchange of energy. They will look forward to hearing from you and before you know it - you will be looking forward to checking in too. Aging can be quite a transition and not being able to take care of one's self, or constantly being ill due to the body slowing down can be depressing. Just showing up, calling or sending a card might be the remedy to boosting their mood and stimulating a fresh wind of loving life even with the changes of the aging process.

There's something to be said about being thoughtful, considerate and kind to others. It is a simple, healthy, fun boost.

It is Good to Give Thanks - Happy Thanksgiving!

There is something special about the holidays, at least for me. Thanksgiving and Christmas has always been my favorite holidays as it is a time when the family gets together and the room is filled with joy and laughter. The excitement of seeing your loved ones who travel from near and far makes for a wonderful reunion. It is also a time to share, inviting friends who may not have a family to celebrate thanksgiving. My friends would always fit right in and become a part of the family.

Thanksgiving is also a time that reminds us of our loved ones who are no longer joining us at the table. I miss my father, he was a great cook and I really wish he was still here. I also miss my father in-law, we would laugh and talk about any and everything. I loved his pies, they were the best pies ever made. However, there are those of us who have loved ones in the hospitals, assisted living facilities and nursing homes. Take a trip to visit your loved ones and if possible, see if you can arrange for them to be released for the day. Sharing the holidays not only lifts the spirits of your loved ones, but it also sends a subtle yet profound signal to the staff. Family involvement is extremely important.

Whether you are watching the parade, the football games, your favorite marathon movies, reality shows or sitcoms, talking and laughing loudly - remember to cherish the moments. Give thanks not only for the food and family but give thanks for being able to share with others. With that said, make a plate and take it to someone who may live alone and are unable to get around. Enjoy and have a Happy Thanksgiving!