Spreading happiness through social networking can slow the aging process!

Ok, I don't have any definitive proof that it actually slows the aging process but can't we have some fun making the assumption? A friend of mine sent over this article and I had to share it, I love this stuff..Being in the health and wellness field, this stuff really intrigues me. Especially since I'm fairly new to the online social networking realm...You see, I've been resisting jumping on this train for months now because I believed it would be a royal time-sucker for me and I'd end up feeling nothing but exhaustion (from having to keep up with everyone) and panic (from worrying about having to keep up with everyone)..But I finally succumbed and jumped onboard a few weeks ago and I have to say, it's been a lot of fun. I've truly enjoyed finding friends I haven't seen or spoken to for years and catching up with their lives and families. I've also met a number of others through the socializing channels that I've enjoyed getting to know from a friendship and business networking standpoint..And now, all this...finding out that there's all this happiness being spread and I'm benefiting from it. It's fantastic. Come to think of it..I have felt much healthier the past few weeks. Screw Botox, I've found something much cheaper, pain-free, and a lot more fun.

Never too old. A 73 yr. old college basketball player an inspiration.

I came across this article today and it left me thinking, "Wow". What an inspiration for everyone out there who feels they don't have what it takes. Guess again. You do. This athlete became the oldest individual to play college basketball. And, he's a full-time student!

Remember, you're never too old to get started. Just take that first step and you might be amazed at what follows.

You live simpler. You live less stressed.

Health is found in many forms. True health is a compilation of what we choose to eat and drink. How we choose to move. How we find rest. But as equally key in this equation is the environment we live within and that which we surround ourselves with. It's an area of well-being often overlooked but one I believe deserves much more attention that it gets. It's understandable that we place emphasis on our genetics/family health history, the foods we eat or don't eat, the habits we may have as they relate to tobacco and alcohol consumption, our exercise tendencies, and the typical daily stressors we encounter as these are the focus areas our physicians and other health professionals emphasize and ask us to monitor, and rightly so. These all play critical roles in our overall health and hence, longevity.

But, what about those daily 'stressors'? Where does this stress come from? Does it originate from home or the workplace? And when I say 'from home', can we pinpoint the specific contributors? Perhaps from interactions with family members, finances, uncertainty about the future, responsibilities, the raising of children and young adults. All of these, areas we could spend hours discussing and looking for ways to improve upon and hone our approaches in. Areas that warrant their own individual time and effort in establishing goals and forward plans for, and in turn, finding success in.

However, for the purposes of this post, I'd like to focus on the actual 'home' itself and the factors that contribute to unnecessary, added stress. For years I've been acutely aware of the 'stuff' that can accumulate in life. And I've made a conscious effort to avoid being overwhelmed by this stuff. I've always had the neat-freak gene so I've just inherently kept stuff in check and have developed my own system of avoiding the 'collection' problem. With more stuff comes the opportunity for unnecessary accumulation, disorganization, a feeling of being overwhelmed and somewhat claustrophobic, frustration with not being able to find important items when necessary, and ultimately plain 'ol added stress.

Oftentimes, one doesn't even realize the impact this type of stess can have. It sort of goes unchecked, I refer to it as a type of 'stealth' stress as it comes in under the radar and isn't recognized as easily as other more traditional types of stress. And, typically, even if it is recognized, it's more easily pushed aside and avoided. But, eventually, it comes back and keeps coming back until it's finally dealt with to the tune of alot of time and effort.

When we look at taking steps to reduce general stress in our lives we look at things that aren't rocket science but rather simplistic things that are always the first to be forgotten or missed when our busy lives take over. But, the good news is that these steps are simple enough you can jump back onboard with a little effort and focus. And most often, it's not the steps that are hardest to maintain, it's getting started and getting started with a plan that can be maintained.

The following are steps I focus on with individuals as it pertains to initially getting stress under control:

1. Breathing-a return to the most basic thing we do but with an emphasis on the deep, diaphragmatic kind
2. Reduction of caffeine and alcohol-relax, I didn't say the elimination of, I said the reduction of....two very different things
3. An increase in water consumption-you've heard it over and over again, I know....you'd be surprised at the difference it can make
4. Saying 'no' on a regular basis-it's a tough one, but man, it's an amazing asset once you've gotten some practice in
5. R&R-no secret here
6. Getting back to who you are-oftentimes when we feel the stress level rising it can be attributed to the fact that we've lost touch to a certain extent with ourselves and when you've lost touch with yourself it can be difficult to understand why you feel the way you do

So what does the above have to do with 'home-stuff' stress? Plenty. When general stress continues to build and build and goes unchecked it begins to infiltrate other areas of your life. The proverbial 'snowball' effect kicks in and before you know it your living space starts to suffer and the power of 'abode overload' takes over.

When I coach individuals in creating a more ideal home environment we generally begin with recognizing and defining those things that are potentially adding to the overall stress level. Some things are easier to recognize than others and it's my role to help the individual discover some of those areas that may be impacting them in a negative way that might not be so easily recognizable. Once we've developed a clearer understanding of those areas we can formulate a plan forward for addressing them. Generally speaking, plans may focus on the recognition of those things most important in your life, taking inventory, the 'purging' of 'stuff' not needed, organization, simplification, re-design of a room or rooms, and the creation of a more inviting outdoor living space.

I'd like to touch on all of the above mentioned areas but we'll start with one for now and move to the others at a later time. I'm skipping the first two and moving to 'organization' since I did find a good read on this and it relates back to a few of the steps I listed earlier. Have a look and I'll continue with this topic very soon.

You and diet myths.

This is a topic that achieves plenty of airtime and it seems to come up every year right around holiday eating time. And why wouldn't it, it's when millions find themselves putting on the 'winter layer' and when gyms and clubs start salivating themselves. The holidays are right round the corner and with them, the fun, food, and.......more food. But, it's all 'ok'. Really. No, really. It can all be controlled with a little planning, a little 'take it easy on yourself', and a little more 'take it easy on yourself'. With the right approach, you can enjoy the holidays the way they were meant to be enjoyed, avoid padding 'Jacque the Personal Trainer's' wallet, and not even have to be concerned about 'The Truth Behind 10 Diet Myths'.

Feel free to drop a line, Element U can help you put together a 'Holiday Survival Plan'. And, yes, it can actually be alot of fun too.

A return to manners. A return to better health.

I just couldn't resist posting this after I read this article. You see, I believe it's all connected. Better manners equals enhanced happiness (for both those giving and receiving) which, I believe in turn, equates to improved health. In corporate-speak it's referred to as a win-win.

2008 physical activity guidelines for Americans.

Given the state of poor overall health that a high percentage of Americans are in, it should come as no surprise the government has been working overtime to develop a plan to address the issue before it becomes even more catastrophic. There's much to gain as a whole for our nation if less numbers of individuals continue to gain. Overall, there's been a major emphasis placed recently on educating the consumer on everything from simple movement ideas to the true caloric content of fast food to enhanced sleep remedies. All very critical to increased longevity with the likelihood of less negative health issues along the way. Take a look, there's some good, solid information to be found. If you've got further questions, and sometimes the information can be confusing, don't hesitate to contact Element U Personal Health Coaching or a health professional near you.

It's official. Lance Armstrong is back.

Lance announced today that he will compete in the 2009 Tour de France and will ride for previous team director Johan Bruyneel with Team Astana. This could definitely make for some interesting dynamics down the road with past American teammate Levi Leipheimer on the squad, as well as, 2007 Tour winner Alberto Contador. We'll see how this unfolds, but I'm stoked to have him back..It's what American cycling needs and it's what The Tour needs. Lance is also hiring anti-doping expert Don Catlin who will run a program to regularly test Lance. For the entire story, click here.

Allez Lance.

Tour de Lance '09!

Sheer joy. I've had a smile on my face all day. America's cycling and cancer awareness icon is returning to ride. And not just ride, but ride in the 2009 Tour de France (and a few other events). I couldn't be happier. And, I don't think I just speak for myself when I say I've missed seeing him and his dominate performance each year in France's signature event. I've been geeked on cycling my entire life and to see LA again revitalize American cycling and continue his huge contributions in so many ways to cancer awareness is awesome. Yes, I've followed the Tours since his departure because for me that's what the month of July has always been about (other than it's my birth month.... barely) but it's not been the same. Not even close.

Thanks Lance. You've made my day and my year. Looking forward to seeing you, once again, in yellow and the French, once again, seeing red.

health tips of the week:

Ahhhh, Chocolate

Reaching for sugary candy when chocolate is what you truly crave can leave you feeling unsatisfied. In addition, it can also lead to excess calories. If chocolate is what you want, simply consider eating your favorites in smaller amounts.
Chocolate doesn't contain fewer calories than other sweet treats, but studies are showing that dark chocolate may actually have cardiovascular health benefits. It's rich in flavonoids, a group of antioxidants also found in red wine, fruits, vegetables and tea. The key, as is the case with all foods we enjoy, is moderation. It should only take a bite or two to satisfy your urge.

A Dash of Salt

Like to add salt to just about everything? You're not alone. More than three-quarters of our salt (sodium chloride) intake comes from processed foods such as frozen dinners, canned foods, and processed meats. Decreasing your sodium intake can help lower your blood pressure if you have hypertension and improve your overall health. The best way to cut down on sodium is to consume more foods in their natural form, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, and to limit fast foods. Aim for a maximum of 1500 - 2300 mg of sodium (2/3 to 1 teaspoon of salt) per day.

Multivitamins & Food

Are you one of millions of Americans that take a daily multivitamin? If so, many nutrition experts recommend taking it with a meal. Doing so can improve the absorption of some nutrients and may reduce stomach irritation. It's recommended to look for a multivitamin with the USP seal of approval. This voluntary standard ensures that the pill has been tested to dissolve properly and that it meets purity standards. Keep in mind, vitamin supplements are not a substitute for a healthy diet and as always, it's best to check with your doctor before taking any supplements.

A Healthy Cool Snack Idea - Banana Crunch Pops

Place a small banana on a popsicle stick, cover with non fat or low fat vanilla yogurt, roll in crisped rice cereal and place on waxed paper. Freeze overnight and enjoy a low fat, nutritious cool snack.

Your home and better health.

Most of us think of personal health in terms of a weigh scale, how we eat, how much exercise we get, how much stress we encounter, and how much quality sleep we’re able to achieve. But, another key element that I believe gets overlooked too often is our personal space at home. What exactly do I mean by this? Well, several things. We’re all unique in our personal style as it relates to the choices we’ve made in the type of home we live in, the size of our home, the location and what our home provides us as it relates to the other important and critical things in our life. With home health design we’re speaking specifically of those elements found within and outside of our dwelling that impact our personal health in ways that perhaps we’ve not thought of before. Believe it or not, the impact can be very real and can significantly enhance or hinder progress in other areas of a healthier-living ideal. Healthy design can entail many areas, from the arrangement of furnishings for better comfort and ease, to the removal of toxins and moisture, the concepts of simplification and organization, adding special places for exercise, rest & relaxation, the placement of plants, flowers and herbs; the unique use of color, light and sound and the creation of a stimulating and aesthetic outdoor environment all work together to enhance your personal health ideal. Design changes in and of themselves can offer alot of fun and reward as the possibilities become endless and the creative opportunities leverage one another.

My personal interest in home health design stems from a lifelong passion with design in all forms, specifically, architectural, interior, landscape and the relationship these elements have with personal health and well-being. Integrating these various concepts with my own personal space and where I've called home, I've become more acutely aware of how design style and certain elements play into my own personal happiness, stress-reduction, sense of calm and ease and even the impact on personal biometric values. In my travels to southeast Asia I've paid particular attention to the concept of integrating structure with the natural landscape, using natural elements to blend the interior and exterior living spaces. Much can be said for the way these individuals integrate living things with the proper light, elements of water, wood, color, and modern style. It's a style I'm drawn to for its incredibly calming and tranquil effects and highly 'natural' aesthetic appeal.

In professor Diane Harris-Cline's theory of the Greek Aesthetic and its relationship to the concept of 'Flow' (Psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi describes 'Flow' in his book, Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience, as the state or feeling of total immersion) she explains how the Greeks, who were very aware of color and sound, triggered 'flow' experiences from these two elements which, in turn, enhanced their levels of creativity to the point of producing works of art still held in high esteem today. It ultimately contributed to an environment where individuals were allowed to excel in many areas of human achievement. This fully supports the notion that those who've created environments that cater to creative tendencies (and yes, believe it or not, we all have an inner creative being) tend to have better or improved overall health. Even for those who suffer with minor health problems; longer, healthier lives are attained through environments that encourage self-expression and creativity.

Home Health Design is an area of health that will continue to get more attention as individuals are made more aware of the long-term health benefits and especially as baby boomers search for ways to enhance longevity at home and away from traditional assisted living facilities and retirement homes.

Stay tuned for further discussion around 'Home Health Aesthetic and Design' and please feel free to drop some thoughts or insights.