Spending time in nature significantly boosts health, affecting physical and mental well-being for children and adults alike. We can feel this innately anytime we're able to get outside for a half-hour walk, to take in a sunrise, or sit under the stars. But we also have the studies to back it up. Getting outside is good for us, on so many levels. Nature exposure lowers stress, blood … [Read more...] about Nature Boosts Health: Benefits of Getting Outside
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Beyond Sudoku: What Keeps Your Brain Healthy Over Time
Sudoku and crossword puzzles often are touted as beneficial to cognitive health. And these games and others can provide mental engagement and enjoyment, as well as build mastery and competence. But they are not a standalone solution to better brain health. Puzzles are, well, just one part of the brain health puzzle. Brain training, in which the games and puzzles increase in … [Read more...] about Beyond Sudoku: What Keeps Your Brain Healthy Over Time
Lifestyle Changes to Lower Your Risk of Dementia
Do you silently worry that you'll develop dementia? Perhaps you have a family history of cognitive decline or worry that any age-related memory changes you're already experiencing will get worse. If so, you're not alone. As we age, especially if we have a family history of dementia, many of us worry that it will be our future, too. But reality is more nuanced than … [Read more...] about Lifestyle Changes to Lower Your Risk of Dementia
Women and Alzheimer’s: Did You Know?
Of every three people in the United States living with Alzheimer's, two are women. And, even factoring in women's longer lifespans, they're twice as likely as men to develop the disease. But a recent poll indicated that many women don't know about their elevated risk, nor what they can do to reduce it. It's time to shift that. Studies show that brain changes quietly start to … [Read more...] about Women and Alzheimer’s: Did You Know?
Ready, Set, NO! Why It’s Hard to Change Our Habits
It's hard to change habits, especially unhealthy ones. Shifting your behavior and integrating healthier habits into your daily life often feels like a one-step-forward, two-steps-back spiral. So why is it so hard? We know what to do. Experts tell us we should sleep more, find ways to mitigate our stress, cut out tobacco, reduce or eliminate alcohol, eat healthier foods, and exercise … [Read more...] about Ready, Set, NO! Why It’s Hard to Change Our Habits
Women and Weight Training: Will I Bulk Up?
When I started going to a gym regularly and lifting weights, I remember thinking: I don't want to bulk up. I simply want to be a little bit stronger. Would I bulk up, like the Incredible Hulk? What benefits would weight training, or resistance training, give me? Why should I do this? And how did this fit into my health goals? As I wondered about all these questions about women and weight … [Read more...] about Women and Weight Training: Will I Bulk Up?