Category

Living Well

Oct 19
Love0

7 Ways to Help a Hospice Patient Connect with Nature

By Hospice, Living Well

Did you know that spending time outdoors improves your overall health? Research shows that spending time in natural spaces reduces stress, lowers blood pressure, and increases happiness. The transition to hospice care can be difficult for patients, so spending time with them outdoors can significantly improve their quality of life and emotional well-being. Here are 7 meaningful ways to bring the healing comfort of nature to your loved one in hospice care.

A couple enjoying a walk outside

1. Take a local nature walk

Staying active and healthy is important, especially during hospice care. Keeping your loved one moving improves their quality of life, and the sun boosts their Vitamin D levels. The good news is that you don’t have to go far to do so. If your loved one is able, the two of you can go for a nature walk in the neighborhood or around one of their favorite parks in town. If their mobility is limited, you can push them in a wheelchair during your walk.

Before you go, make sure your hospice patient wears comfortable shoes and has proper sun protection. For your walk, choose a flat, paved path for easy mobility and wheelchair navigation. Your path should also have frequent stopping places so your loved one can rest. If they get tired while walking, you could consider the next option.

A scenic view from a road

2. Go on a scenic drive

A change of scenery can be therapeutic for hospice patients who feel cooped up for too long. If leaving the house is possible, you could take them on a scenic drive, which offers your loved one a complete environment change and an opportunity to connect with nature. As you drive, roll the windows down and listen to the sounds of nature to fully immerse yourselves in the calm, tranquil setting. The natural environment can help reduce any stress, pain, or anxiety that your loved one may have been feeling, and a change in location can boost their mood tremendously.

A mother and daughter enjoying a patio

3. Sit on a porch or patio

A shaded porch or patio offers a gentle bridge to the outdoors. You can encourage your loved one to enjoy the space by gently helping them move outside, whether they can walk or require a wheelchair. This activity allows your person to enjoy the fresh air and the surrounding natural landscape without straying too far from their comfort zone. If you wish, you can sit outside together, which can encourage them to relax, breathe a little easier, and enjoy the world around them.

A small indoor garden

4. Curate an indoor garden

Does your loved one enjoy gardening? If so, you could put together a small indoor garden for them to look after. Select low-maintenance plants and place the garden on an easily accessible surface. Taking care of a garden can help your loved one establish a routine while they receive hospice care and expose them to the therapeutic benefits of nature right in their home. Some benefits include engaging their senses, reminding them of pleasant memories, and keeping their mind active.

A cardinal resting at a birdfeeder

5. Set up a birdfeeder outside their window

Birdwatching is a thoughtful pastime that doesn’t require too much movement or effort. You can buy a birdfeeder and birdseed, and then set up the station outside a window. Birdwatching offers a soothing, engaging distraction that invites hospice patients to be present in the moment and safely observe wildlife. You might consider getting them a pair of binoculars and a bird book, so they can identify the different birds that visit them.

Indoor plants on a shelf

6. Bring plants to their room

If your loved one is unable to leave their room, bring the beauty of the outdoors inside. Indoor plants can help liven up the space with greenery and color, purify the air, and give your person something pretty to look at. You can buy a couple of their favorite plants and place them in pots that you and your family decorate. This way, your loved one has something special from you.

A person opening a window

7. Open a window

A simple way to bring nature to your loved one is to open a window and let fresh air into their home. This way, they can still enjoy nature even if they can’t leave their home. Frequent air circulation can also remove stale air and lingering odors from the home. By opening a window, you let your loved one rest and breathe easily as they continue their hospice journey.

Grandparents walking with their grandchild outside

Hospice care is a journey centered on the patient’s comfort, dignity, and quality of life. While medical support addresses their physical health, connecting with nature prioritizes your loved one’s emotional and spiritual well-being when they need it most.

Whether your loved one feels a gentle breeze through an open window, watches birds gather at a feeder, or simply rests on a park bench under a tree, the simplest nature experiences can bring peace and relief during the hospice journey.

Oct 14
Love0
Woman in warm coat riding a bike through a forest filled with fall leaves and barren trees

Nature & Your Grief Journey

By Grief/Loss, Living Well

Grieving is not easy, and it can be one of the most difficult yet potentially strengthening journeys of your life. But to become a stronger person on the other side of the grief journey, you must walk through the pain, no matter how difficult. As Dr. Alan Wolfelt, a nationally respected author and grief expert, puts it, “You don’t get to go around or above your grief. You must go through it.”

One habit that has helped many people process their grief is spending time in nature. You may be thinking, “Nah, I’m not an outdoorsy person. That won’t work for me.” Before you dismiss the idea, take a moment to read through some of the benefits of adding time outdoors to your schedule.

Woman in warm coat riding a bike through a forest filled with fall leaves and barren treesNature reminds you that death is part of the cycle of life.

As much as we’d like to escape death, it is a part of life. The natural cycle is very evident in the cyclical nature of the seasons. In the spring, life begins anew, continues into summer, begins to fall in autumn, and dies in winter. But there is hope because life begins again. In many ways, every person experiences these seasons. Perhaps you are in the winter of your grief and feeling lifeless on the inside, but as you walk through your grief, spring will come.

Nature provides physical evidence that life does go on.

Similarly, just as the seasons highlight that death is a part of life, they also act as a reminder that life goes on. This cycle of birth, life, death, and rebirth helps put life and death in perspective. Even though it may feel like life has stopped with the death of your loved one, it hasn’t. In some ways, this truth may make you angry (how can life just keep going?), but there is also comfort and assurance in the certainty of the continuation of life.

Focus on jeans and brown winter boots of a person walking on snowy path“In the depth of winter, I finally learned that within me there lay an invincible summer.” Albert Camus

Nature nurtures mental and emotional health.

A Stanford-led study found that people who walked in natural areas (versus urban) showed a significant decrease in brain activity associated with depression. In fact, research also shows that there is a link between a connection to nature and faster recovery rates, reduced stress, and less severe symptoms in both mental and physical disorders. Just looking at nature can be beneficial to your health.

Nature demands nothing from you.

During times of grief, you may feel pulled in many different directions. Work. Family. Friends. Endless errands. All the big and small responsibilities of life. In contrast to these things (even though they are good), nature asks nothing of you. In many ways, it gives you something. It accepts you as you are, never asking questions or demanding answers. And during times of grief, a quiet break from all the noise can be just what you need.

Woman resting in a hammock on a spring day“Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better.” Albert Einstein

Nature provides quietness and solitude.

When you’re grieving, time away to think and process is necessary but can be hard to achieve. Go for a walk, gear up for a bike ride, or hike a mountain trail. All of these things give you the time and solitude needed to process your thoughts. You have an opportunity to enjoy the quietness without feeling cut off from the world. And when needed, you can talk out loud to yourself or your loved one without an audience.

Nature allows you to disconnect from the world around you.

In a world that is becoming increasingly chaotic and negative, sometimes you just need time to unplug, especially when you’re processing feelings of grief. For some, it’s hard to completely unplug, but doing so is valuable and healthy. Taking time to enjoy nature gives you the opportunity to embrace the world without its distractions and miscommunications. Even if something is good and positive, isn’t it nice to take a little break?

Man running along a nature path on a clear summer's day“Rest is not idleness, and to lie sometimes on the grass under trees on a summer’s day, listening to the murmur of the water, or watching the clouds float across the sky, is by no means a waste of time.” John Lubbock

Nature brings wonder back into your life.

When you’ve lost someone, life can seem a bit dimmer. Its joys aren’t as joyful; its mysteries aren’t as fascinating. But nature can help bring wonder back into your life. The majesty of the Rocky Mountains; the beauty of a sun-kissed beach, flanked by turquoise waters; the rolling green hills of spring. Nature is limitless in its artistry and can remind you that there is still beauty in the world.

Nature draws your attention outward.

Grief is often mentally exhausting. In some cases, the events of the death play in your mind over and over again, especially in the case of an unexpected or traumatic death. Most of your life is lived within your own mind, where you can get caught up in circular thoughts that may not be healthy for you. Nature can be an outlet for your thoughts and draw your attention outward, giving your brain a much-needed break.

Two women in colorful rain jackets talking on a beach“In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks.” John Muir

Nature activates social support if you enjoy it with others.

As a human being, you’re wired for interaction and community. During times of grief, some people tend to isolate themselves, perhaps as a defense mechanism against further pain. But, despite the pain, it’s important to receive support from others. You aren’t meant to go through life alone. If you enjoy walking or hiking, invite a friend to join you and allow them to support you through your grief.

These are only a few of the reasons why nature positively benefits any grief journey. If you decide to incorporate outdoor activities into your life, start out slowly. The act of grieving is tiring. If you can only walk for five minutes before you need a break, start out with five minutes. Over time, you will be able to go for longer periods.

As you begin, don’t worry about what other people are doing to deal with their own grief. This is about you and your personal grief journey. Find what works best for you and stick with it until you come to a place where the pang of loss doesn’t sting quite as deeply.

Sep 21
Love0
Group of senior adult friends laughing together

Healthy Practices for Your Later Years: 70s

By Living Well, Plan Ahead

Your 70s are here. Let’s make them great!

While good habits benefit you throughout your life, it’s never too late to make positive changes. While you should continue good habits from previous decades, there are unique challenges that come with reaching your 70s. Let’s go over 10 helpful and healthy practices to maintain your health and organize your affairs in your golden years.

10 Best Practices for Healthy 70-Somethings

Man and woman stretching at the beach

1. Strengthen your Body

While exercise may look quite different now, it’s still essential for your overall health and energy levels. Rather than engaging in high-intensity cardio sessions (unless your body is used to it already), look for low-impact cardio activities, such as walking, yoga, swimming, or indoor cycling. Also include stretching and strength training in your normal routine.

Woman in light blue shirt sitting on couch and writing in gratitude journal

2. Manage Stress

Growing older doesn’t take away stress, though the specifics may change. If you’re on a fixed income, you may wonder if it will be enough. Or you may worry about getting sick or losing friends to illness. These types of concerns can lead to stress, depression, or anxiety, but there are ways to manage the stress.

To combat these three mood busters, try out a few easy tips:

  • Take time each day to focus on something you are thankful for.
  • Acknowledge and express your feelings, both positive and negative.
  • Embrace and find comfort in your spirituality.
  • Accept that some things are outside your control.
  • Try to keep your sense of humor.
  • Continue to build relationships with people – you need them!

Person working a crossword puzzle

3. Engage Your Mind

While some degree of forgetfulness is normal with age, significant decline is not an inevitable part of aging. If you challenge your brain, it will function well throughout your lifetime. The key is to regularly exercise your brain. A few ideas to get you started are:

  • Try new variations of familiar activities, like new types of puzzles, new recipes, or a different sport
  • Learn something entirely new, like a language or a skill
  • Seek new experiences and make new friends

Pitcher of water and glass sitting on a coffee table in front of a couch

4. Eat Well and Drink Plenty of Water

Healthy nutrition has a few added challenges as you age. For instance, your sense of taste and smell can change a bit, which affects your appetite. Slower digestion and metabolism change how your body processes food, and you may begin to lose your sense of thirst. To combat these challenges, be intentional about your food and water intake.

Eat plenty of protein, calcium, and fiber, and drink lots of water. On average, people in their 70s drink too little. You actually need anywhere from eleven to fifteen cups of water per day! Try not to skip meals, and if you’re having trouble maintaining a healthy diet, discuss it with a family member, your health care provider, or a nutritionist.

Senior adult woman sleeping peacefully in bed

5. Rest Well and Deeply

You may think you need less sleep now that you’re a little less active, but that’s not the case. Adults in their 70s still need 7-9 hours of sleep each night. Of course, as an older adult, you may experience sleep complications, like insomnia, daytime sleepiness, health conditions, or aches and pains that keep you awake at night.

To achieve ample rest, set good sleep habits in place. Make sure that your room is dark, quiet, and not too warm. Stop using the TV or your electronic devices at least one hour before bed. And if you suffer from insomnia, try to exercise during the day and avoid naps so you feel tired when bedtime comes around. If you are still having trouble sleeping, speak to your health care provider.

Concerned senior adult man on phone with credit card company

6. Be Aware of Elder Crime

Unfortunately, older adults are at risk for certain types of crime, particularly elder abuse and fraud (identity theft, fake checks, and various kinds of scams). Most often, fraud is perpetrated by someone you don’t know, but elder abuse is a different story. Elder abuse can be physical, emotional, or psychological and often involves neglect, abandonment, or financial exploitation.

To guard against elder abuse, keep the people you trust close. Also, be on the lookout for these signs of an abusive caregiver: lack of affection, don’t allow you to be alone with others, are angry or aggressive toward you, don’t clean the home or help you with personal hygiene, speak about you as if you were a burden, or give conflicting stories to explain an incident. If you’re experiencing any of these signs, reach out to someone you trust for help or call the elder abuse hotline in your state.

Man sitting on couch holding a cane to help with preventing falls

7. Prevent Falls

Now is a time to be especially aware of your bone health. Osteoporosis is a significant concern for those who are aging because it can cause bones to break more easily. By adding low-impact cardio, strength training, and calcium and vitamin D to your routine, you can increase your bone mass and decrease the likelihood of broken bones.

In addition to exercise, assess the potential risks in your home and identify any tripping hazards, like throw rugs, cords, or clutter. Consider removing these hazardous items completely. Also, if you are having trouble now, use a cane or walker when needed and wear supportive shoes. Above all, take your time when doing things. There’s no rush.

Senior woman visiting eye doctor

8. Pursue Good Eye, Ear, and Heart Health

As you grow older, take special care of your eyes, ears, and heart. As you age, many people more frequently experience dry eye, so drink plenty of fluids, limit your screen time, and schedule screenings for glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration.

If you start to experience hearing loss, bring your concerns to your health care provider. They can help you understand the best way to move forward. And for your heart, it’s never too late to start good habits. Discuss your heart’s current health with your doctor, take any medications, eat well, and exercise. These activities can protect your heart in the long run.

Husband and wife chatting with advisor about putting their affairs in order

9. Plan Ahead

One of the best things you can do for your family is to get your affairs in order. The clearer and more organized your affairs are, the easier it will be for your surviving family members to carry out your wishes. While it’s hard to think about your mortality, it’s always a good idea to take care of these important aspects of planning while you’re still in good health and able to make sound decisions.

The most important estate planning concerns to address are: a legal will, financial or medical power of attorney, a living will, advance care directives, and funeral planning. Feel free to bring your family members into any part of the process and get their valuable input. And once your plans are in place, designate at least two emergency contacts and make sure they have access to your information.

Group of senior adult friends laughing together

10. Find Joy in Each Day

As you grow older, try to maintain your sense of purpose and find joy in each day. Having a positive attitude will help you face each day with excitement and anticipation.

Find things to be grateful for. Face any limitations you may have with a good sense of humor. Stay connected to others to increase healthy longevity. Pick up a new hobby, find ways to volunteer, spend time outdoors, join a club, or visit places you’ve always wanted to go. With each new day, continue to find ways to enjoy life and the people you love.

With friends, family, and these 10 tips by your side, you have a wonderful decade to look forward to. May the 70s be some of the happiest and most fruitful years of your life!

Jul 10
Love0
mom and two kids standing in a field and gazing out to the trees

Your First Family Photoshoot After Loss: 4 Tips for a Meaningful Experience

By Educational, Grief/Loss, Living Well

After losing a loved one, many firsts can feel especially heavy as that special person’s absence becomes more noticeable in everyday life. Milestones, holidays, special events, and anniversaries each hold their own kind of weight, often stirring up memories and emotions in unexpected ways. One moment that can catch you off guard is the first family photoshoot without someone who meant so much.

Losing someone means you can’t be with them in the same way anymore. Your connection with them shifts into something you carry through memory rather than physical presence. Dr. Alan Wolfelt, a nationally respected grief counselor, author, and educator, believes that every person must move through a process that he calls “reconciliation,” a way of learning to move forward while integrating the reality of that absence into one’s life.

grandad, grandson, and son sitting in a field together with hills behind them

This change can feel especially visible during an event like family photos, where a loved one’s absence is both seen and felt. It’s not about letting go, but about finding a new way to stay connected while continuing to move forward. Whether your loss is recent or something you’ve carried for a while, planning that first family photoshoot without a loved one can feel especially emotional.

With thoughtful preparation, however, it can become a meaningful, healing experience that brings moments of joy as you reflect on the impact someone had on your life. Here are a few considerations to help make the experience a little easier.

empty rocking chair on a deck looking out towards the water

Thoughtfully Plan Your Session

Before your session, reach out to your photographer to talk through your expectations, any sensitivities, and what matters most to you. These conversations can help create a more relaxed and supportive experience.

You can share as much or as little about your loss as you feel comfortable. What kind of tone feels right for this session? Something more reflective, hopeful, or somewhere in between? Small details like timing, location, or even who stands where can carry more emotional weight than expected. Thinking through those pieces ahead of time can ease some of the pressure, allowing you to arrive at the session feeling a bit more prepared and supported.

mom and two kids standing in a field and gazing out to the trees

Honor Your Loved One’s Memory

As you plan out the session, consider tangible and intangible ways you can remember your loved one and do what feels most true for your family. Take time to talk through meaningful details with your family and decide how you’d like to intentionally honor your loved one.

Your photographer may already have some cool ideas for how to personalize your photoshoot, so be sure to talk with them and share your own wishes, too. If you find yourself needing inspiration or a starting point, here are a few options you might consider including:

  • Shoes, a favorite blanket, hat collection, or well-loved jewelry
  • Their favorite flowers to add color and a sense of joy
  • A small comfort item for children in memory of their loved one
  • Collectibles like books, records, or art
  • A framed photo of your loved one

young girl in a pink sweater holding a trifold American flag

There are also several intangible ways to incorporate personal touches that represent your loved one, subtle additions to your session that still hold deep meaning. Choosing a location like a favorite state park, your home, or a place they loved can gently incorporate a lost loved one’s presence into the photoshoot.

Even small details, like planning for a sunrise or sunset session, can bring an added sense of connection if that was a time of day they enjoyed. What was their favorite color? You could coordinate outfits in that shade or include subtle accents that reflect it. Did they have a signature pose they were known for? You and your family could recreate it to honor them. These intentional choices offer a quiet, meaningful way to keep their presence close.

bouquet of flowers being held by a woman in a grey sweater

Give Yourself Grace for Emotions

Grief doesn’t follow a schedule, and emotions can surface unexpectedly during the photoshoot. It helps to plan for breaks and allow space for pauses when needed. A slower, more flexible pace can ease some of the pressure, especially for children, giving everyone room to settle and feel more grounded.

At the same time, leaving space for natural moments to unfold can be incredibly meaningful. Sharing stories or memories during the session can create opportunities for genuine connection, and sometimes even laughter, as you reminisce together. There’s no need to force smiles or hold everything together; instead, welcome whatever emotions come up.

AA image- father and daughter playing on a beach and laughing

Move Forward While Still Honoring Loss

Over time, a photoshoot can become more than just a yearly tradition. It can be an opportunity to honor your loved one and reconcile with your grief. Each session can include something that reminds you of them, whether you share stories as you gather or simply show up as you are, year after year, and finding hope.

In the end, the images from your family photoshoot will become part of the story you’re continuing to carry: one that holds both love and loss, presence and absence. And within that, there can be something steady and grounding. Family photoshoots can become an evolving way to remember, to connect, and to keep your loved one woven into your family’s story. As you prepare for your first family photoshoot after loss, may these helpful tips make that time precious and healing for every member of your family.

Apr 01
Love0
group of friends laughing and talking together over dinner

The Healing Power of Laughter in Grief

By Educational, Grief/Loss, Living Well

Like the ocean’s tides, grief ebbs and flows. Its waves are sometimes overwhelming, and sometimes they gently recede to make space for a brief return to joy and peace. It may feel like grief is taking away your happiness and perhaps even your sense of self as it washes over you. So, how can you stay afloat when grief rises and falls? What can you do to cope? Believe it or not, laughter is a proven way to cope with loss and can become an incredible tool in your grief toolkit.

two women laughing over coffee

Grief and Laughter Coexist

Human beings are complex and capable of feeling many different emotions at the same time. While it may seem contradictory, laughter and grief often coexist, even when loss is fresh. You may experience waves of sadness, nostalgia, and even unexpected happiness within moments of each other.

Research shows that humor is both a defense mechanism and a powerful tool for coping with difficult events. Have you ever felt the uncontrollable need to laugh when someone falls flat on their face? You are still concerned about whether the person hurt themselves, but you just can’t help but burst out laughing. As strange as it may be, that burst of laughter is helping you cope with the situation and move toward compassionate action. So, how can laughter support you during a season of grief? Let’s explore!

couple on the beach at sunset

The Benefits of Laughter

Physical Benefits

Grief places significant stress on your body, leading to elevated cortisol levels, muscle tension, and changes in appetite, all of which can wear you down over time. In contrast, laughter boosts your heart rate, making each heartbeat stronger and more efficient. It also boosts circulation, relaxes your muscles, and provides much-needed “micro breaks,” almost like coming up for air after being swept under the wave of grief.

Emotional Benefits

In addition to physical benefits, laughter also comes with emotional benefits. Did you know that laughter can soothe tension? When you laugh, your body releases dopamine, oxytocin, and endorphins, which are natural mood boosters that can help you relax and reduce feelings of anxiety. Embracing moments of laughter is an act of self-care that helps you regain a sense of agency when life feels out of control. Overall, laughter can ease stress, depression, and anxiety, helping you feel happier, even in the most difficult seasons of life.

group walking along a beach

Social Benefits

Laughter shared with others activates the body’s relaxation response and facilitates meaningful connection. When you’re not up for a crowd, spending time with someone lighthearted or a small group can still deliver the mood-lifting benefits of laughter. For example, if you’re struggling after your loved one’s funeral or memorial service, try a “remember when” story swap. Recalling your loved one’s quirks, bloopers, and favorite jokes can shift the tone from somber to something more bittersweet.

Inviting Laughter into Your Life

During difficult times, healing can come from unexpected sources. That’s why it’s valuable to find gentle ways to invite laughter into your life. By allowing yourself moments of connection, comfort, and laughter, you create space for resilience and growth as you navigate the path toward feeling whole again.

people seated around a table laughing

The following suggestions offer ways to nurture yourself and invite moments of joy, even during times of sorrow.

  • Share a meal with a lighthearted friend and turn it into a comforting, weekly ritual. Sometimes, good company is as nourishing as good food.
  • Explore comedians who weave grief into their routines. Hearing others speak openly and humorously about loss can help break the silence around “taboo” topics and offer a sense of relief and validation.
  • Ask for funny book recommendations at your local library. It may surprise you, but even grief books have humor and can bring joy.
  • Spend more time with friends, family, children, or animals. These shared experiences can offer natural distractions and remind you of life’s more unscripted moments.
  • Clumsy puppies and sassy cats provide a dopamine boost when you’re spending time alone and want a little cheering up. Host or attend board game nights for low-pressure connections. Games provide a shared focus and open the door to spontaneous laughs that feel authentic and not orchestrated.
  • Dive into hobbies and activities that bring you joy or try something new! New projects can shift your focus from pain to creation and discovery, restoring a sense of agency when life feels out of your control.

elderly group hiking

These practical ideas can help you rediscover moments of humor and build safe spaces for healing. By embracing healthy distractions, you give yourself permission to process grief at your own pace, finding hope and support along the way.

Embracing Moments of Joy

As you move through grief, remember that actively seeking and allowing yourself moments of laughter is both natural and healing. The joy that comes from laughter can be the big breath of fresh air you need in the deep moments of grief.

When you’re in the middle of a good laugh, you might find yourself wondering, “What would [name] think or say right now?” You may even hear their laughter as they join in with you. What a sweet moment of connection in the ongoing process of grieving!

woman by the ocean

No matter what, remember that your loved one would want you to find joy again, even as you move through grief. Allowing yourself moments of laughter and happiness doesn’t mean forgetting. Instead, it can honor your loved one’s memory and serve as a gentle reminder to seek out moments of healing joy throughout a season of grief.

May 14
Love0
group of people of mixed ages, races, and gender, smiling with a positive mindset

Living Better: How Positive Thinking Can Improve Your Life

By Estate Planning, Living Well, Plan Ahead

As we get older, we tend to reflect on our lives and examine how we’ve lived. Did we live a meaningful life? Have we left behind a legacy that we’re proud of? While everyone has a different idea of what a “meaningful” or “good” life looks like, making small, positive changes, like creating a positive mindset, can help you feel more fulfilled and healthier.

group of people of mixed ages, races, and gender, smiling with a positive mindset

One way to make changes and create a positive mindset is to build a habit of positive thinking! Studies suggest that positive thinking can significantly improve physical and mental health. It’s not always easy to view the glass as half full, but with practice and persistence, you can cultivate a state of mind that will make you more appreciative of the good in life and more accepting of the bad.

Here are a few ways to build a positive mindset and improve your life!

Practice Contentment

Older happy couple sitting in a green field of dandelions

What does it mean to be happy? Most people don’t find happiness in a stable job, a large paycheck, or even fulfilling their biggest goals. Instead, the most significant factor that influences true happiness is contentment, being satisfied with your current situation.

Maybe you don’t have as much in your retirement savings as you would like. Maybe you never got to work at your dream job. Or maybe you’re experiencing more physical pain as you age. All of these things can be genuinely frustrating, but choosing acceptance and contentment can help you build a more positive perspective.

Instead of focusing on what you don’t have or dwelling on “If only” or “I wish” statements, try to find ways to be content with where you are. Adversity and hardship are a natural part of life, and learning to accept those negative experiences can help improve your health and create a more meaningful, enjoyable life.

Create a Habit of Gratitude

Young woman looking out a window and writing in a gratitude journal

Contentment is the ability to deal with life’s negative events, and gratitude is the flip side of that: the ability to focus on and cherish positive events. Studies suggest that practicing gratitude can reduce stress, lessen anxiety, and improve overall health, thereby increasing quality of life.

But often, it’s easier to focus on the negative aspects of life instead of the positive aspects, especially during hard times or when you’re grieving. Thanks to this negativity bias, practicing gratitude can be a struggle. However, if you build up a habit of gratitude by finding something to be thankful for every day, you can find positivity on even the most challenging day.

How can you build a habit of gratitude? One way is to spend a few minutes each day writing in a gratitude journal. You could also set aside time to say what you’re grateful for, like when you’re doing the dishes or driving to work. Whether you have big or small things that you’re thankful for, taking a few minutes to appreciate them can help you create a positive mindset.

Choose Your Thoughts Wisely

Young african american man thinking with his eyes closed and a smile on his face

What you think has great power. The thoughts you focus on affect your words, actions, and overall mindset. While we can’t always choose the thoughts that enter our minds, we can control what we do with those thoughts. When a negative thought about your appearance, personality, or past enters your mind, do you internalize it and dwell on it? Or do you dismiss it, shift your focus to positive attributes, or take time to remind yourself of what’s important?

In the same way, you can shift your inner dialogue to focus on positivity. When you catch yourself being overly critical of yourself or others, pause and evaluate your thoughts. Is your inner voice being helpful or just judgemental? Is there something more beneficial you can think about? The answer is usually yes!

This doesn’t mean that you try to suffocate negative thoughts and emotions. Negative feelings are a natural part of life, and letting yourself experience them is essential. But as you build a positive mindset, you can learn to differentiate between healthy and unhealthy thoughts.

Of course, having a positive mindset is not the only way to a better quality of life. Eating well, exercising regularly, and avoiding destructive habits are also important for your well-being. But by training your brain to think positively, you can get so much more out of life – and enjoy it more, too!

Mar 08
Love0
older couple having fun outside

How to Leave a Meaningful Legacy

By Living Well

We all want to leave our fingerprints on the world. When we reflect on our mortality, we inevitably wonder how we’ll be remembered and what we want to accomplish before passing away. In other words, what legacy will we leave? In such times, we often find that the things that occupy our time are trivial and unsatisfying. Acknowledging the reality that we will die allows us to put things in perspective and focus our energies on the really important things.

When you pass away, how do you want people to remember you? What are you passionate about? Answering these questions will help you make the most of your life and leave the legacy you wish to. Each of us has a unique opportunity to live a meaningful life and create a legacy that will inspire people. Here are some tips for building a legacy that will make a difference in the lives of others.

Identify the things that are most important to you

small girl in a yellow shirt in between her grandparents placing her hands on their cheeks

Before you start to build your legacy, spend some time in reflection so that you know what direction you want to go. As respected author James Cabell once said, “While it is well enough to leave footprints on the sands of time, it is even more important to make sure that they point in a commendable direction.”

Take time to determine your direction. What do you care the most about? What are your strongest beliefs and convictions? You may want to list the values that mean the most to you. Do you want to be known for your integrity, humility, generosity, or trustworthiness? Do you want others to see you as a leader? A hard worker? Someone people can always count on? Consider the person you want to be and write down the traits and values you want to strengthen to become that person.

Live your legacy in everyday life

older man helping a young boy ride a bike

Once you have your values laid out, you can look for ways to live them out and build them in yourself. Thinking about the story you want to leave behind can be helpful, but taking action is what truly creates your legacy. In the rush to create an inspiring and exciting legacy, letting big projects consume you can be tempting. But it’s also important to remember the small things: a kind word, a smile, an opportunity to laugh.

Think about ways you can live out your values. If you want to become more humble, you could find ways to serve others. If you want to be more generous, you can donate your money or time to a cause you care about. If you want to be known as reliable, show up on time and follow up with your commitments. By building the traits most important to you, you can live out your legacy every day.

Learn from your loved ones

group of older people hanging out, drinking tea, and laughing

There’s nothing better than the inspiration you get from the people you love. Do you admire the legacy of your parents or grandparents? Do you have a mentor you look up to or a friend whose life inspires you? Pay attention to why these people’s lives inspire you. You could even interview them to learn more about their story and perspective on life.

As you build your legacy, ask your family and close friends for feedback. Your loved ones know you better than anyone, and they can give you ideas about activities that could contribute to your legacy. If you don’t want to talk openly about your legacy, that’s also fair. But be sure to listen to those around you. Paying attention to the people who motivate you will remind you of what is important as you work to build a meaningful legacy.

Consider ways to pass on your legacy

girl hugging an older man in a green shirt

Once you begin to live out your values, you can start thinking about how you want to communicate them to others. While living out your values will create your legacy, personal projects can highlight the story you’re leaving behind. You may want to write a book about something important to you. Or you could write a letter that contains life lessons you have discovered. You may get active in community service or donate to charities you find meaningful. Invest time or money in causes that you really want to support. By taking action and investing in what you care about, you inspire others to do the same.

Ask how your decisions could potentially impact others

older couple having fun outside

When considering what projects to invest in, try to envision how your different options could affect people. While it is obviously impossible to predict how your actions will be interpreted after you are gone, putting some real thought into the results of your actions is beneficial. On close examination, you may see that some of your projects are more practical and beneficial than others. Since the activities you engage in represent an important part of who you are, make sure you spend your time in the best possible ways.

As you think about your legacy and the mark you want to make on the world, don’t lose sight of why you’re doing everything. Stop periodically to reevaluate your goals and intentions. Building a legacy is a great way to inspire others, but don’t let your desire to be remembered become an obsession that keeps you from living out your values. Focus on what matters most to you, and you can create a positive legacy.

Feb 02
Love0
Woman standing in front of a sunrise with her arms raised

Live Without Regrets: 7 Ways to Live Life to the Fullest

By Living Well

Have you ever wondered what you’ll think about at the end of your life? What memories will you think of? What will you regret? What changes can you make now to live a more meaningful life?

While there will always be things we regret, we can also take steps to make our lives more meaningful. By pondering the things people typically regret at the end of their lives, we can find common themes that show us ways to live a more fulfilling life.

When we put these ideas into practice, we learn how to live life to the fullest. Here are (in no particular order) seven practical steps you can take to live your life with purpose.

1. Prioritize your work-life balance

Stack of rocks that looks like a scale balancing

“Working too hard” is one of the top regrets of people at the end of their life. While there’s nothing wrong with hard work and ambition, overworking yourself will take its toll – physically, mentally, and emotionally. Whether your job is your passion or just a way to keep food on the table, balancing work and life can help you feel more rested, reduce stress, improve your performance at work, and boost your overall mental health.

Finding the balance between work and life can be challenging, but remember that work-life balance is an ongoing process. Some weeks, finding balance may be easy, while other weeks may require more thought and intentionality. But there are some small steps you can take to improve your work-life balance, like:

  • Saying no to extra work commitments
  • Using your time off and legally required breaks
  • Unplugging from devices for an hour at home
  • Doing things that help you rest

Work-life balance looks different for everyone, so find what works for you and helps your life feel more meaningful. Even small changes can make a significant impact.

2. Spend more time with loved ones

multigenerational family enjoying a meal together

Along the same lines, many people regret not spending more time with their loved ones. We often fall into the trap of thinking that our family and friends will always be there, but in reality, we only have a limited time with those we love. That’s why it’s so important to cherish time with family, whether with your parents, siblings, spouses, children, or friends who are your “found family.”

Plus, spending time with your loved ones can improve your mental health and help you cope with stress by providing a stronger support system. While spending quality time with your family may be difficult if everyone is busy with their own things, be intentional about carving out time together. Eat a meal together at least once a week. Do chores together while singing to your favorite music. Plan a tech-free family game night. Go to community events. Spend some time outdoors playing games or hiking.

Whatever you choose to do, intentionally set aside time together and prioritize it – try not to let anything interrupt your time. Both you and your family will benefit from your time together.

3. Don’t be afraid to take risks

Two people skydiving together

What holds you back from taking risks? Uncertainty? Fear of failure? While caution and restraint can be good, they can also keep you from exploring new opportunities. Our instinct is often to play it safe and stay in our comfort zone. But if you refuse to take risks, you miss out on many amazing things life has to offer.

Whether you try out skydiving or get up the courage to talk to your crush, getting comfortable taking risks can open up new opportunities and boost your confidence. If you find yourself struggling to take risks, start small. Try out a new hobby or compliment a stranger at the store. Don’t be afraid to ask for support and advice from someone you trust.

And remember that taking risks is different from making bad choices! Not all risks are worth taking, and don’t let anyone pressure you into taking a risk that may harm you or someone else. For a few more tips on assessing risk, visit this article.

4. Be yourself

Woman standing in front of a sunrise with her arms raised

How often do you worry about what other people think of you? In a world where we’re afraid to be judged, many people struggle to be themselves. From the outfits we wear to how we talk and the media we consume, it’s tempting to try to create a version of ourselves that we think people will like.

But you can’t please everyone, and the harder you try to, the more you lose sight of who you are and the more unfulfilled you’ll feel. Instead of trying to please others, embrace what makes you unique! When you choose to be your authentic self, you can build deeper relationships with the people who truly matter and who love you for who you are.

While you may find this hard initially, you can take small steps to grow more comfortable being yourself. Check out these practical tips for building your confidence and embracing who you are.

5. Keep in touch with friends and distant family

Man writing a letter to a long-distance friend

A common regret many people have at the end of their lives is losing contact with their friends. Our relationships with others are a part of who we are; the people we choose to care about shape us in unique ways. When someone we love moves away or our life circumstances change, it can be easy to drift apart and lose contact.

Sometimes, once a relationship starts to fade, it gets harder and harder to reconnect. But there are many ways to bridge that gap and keep your friendships going, even if they look different. Share a funny video you think they’ll enjoy. Send them a card on their birthday. Write them a letter. Text or call to check in with them. Read the same book or watch the same movie and talk about it. Plan a trip to visit them.

Above all, don’t be afraid to reach out. Your friends will most likely be excited to hear from you, and even though your relationship may look different, you can still support and encourage each other.

6. Give back to others

Group of volunteers looking out at trees

In our busy lives, it’s easy to stay focused on ourselves. But taking time to think about, care for, and give back to others can improve your mental health and help you feel a greater sense of purpose. In fact, 94% of people who volunteer say that volunteering boosts their mood. Even simple acts of kindness can increase your happiness and self-esteem and help your life feel more meaningful.

By taking time out of your day to do something nice for someone else, you divert your attention from your own problems and channel your energy into something that benefits others. You don’t have to do anything big, either! You can compliment a stranger or give someone a card with a sweet message. Let someone merge in traffic. Volunteer at your local soup kitchen or food bank. Give a family member a hug.

There are hundreds of ways, big or small, that you can give back. Check out this page for inspiration or come up with your own idea!

7. Enjoy the small things

woman and her elderly father drinking coffee and laughing together

How often do you find yourself longing for the weekend or anticipating your upcoming vacation, wishing the days would go by faster? While these moments of rest are worth looking forward to, focusing only on the next big event can make you lose sight of the beautiful, everyday moments.

Taking time to enjoy the little things in life can help you appreciate what you have and feel more satisfied with your life. Building an “attitude of gratitude” helps create a positive mindset, improves your outlook, and gives you a new perspective.

Enjoying the little things looks different for everyone. You could take a few minutes to enjoy your coffee outside in the sunshine or cuddle your cat. Embrace a child’s goofiness and act out a story with them. However you choose to enjoy the small things, cherish those beautiful moments you experience every day.

As you consider these ways to create a life that feels more meaningful, don’t stress about making the “perfect” life. Instead, think about what you want from life and what’s most important to you. A meaningful life doesn’t look the same for everyone, and what works for one person may not work for everyone. Most importantly, take everything one day at a time. Change doesn’t happen overnight, so focus on making small daily choices to create a meaningful life.

Aug 30
Love0
Young woman drinking a glass of water

9 Tips for Staying Physically Healthy While Grieving

By Grief/Loss, Living Well

After the death of a loved one, you’re going to experience a variety of emotions. Every person is different, but the emotions will range from sadness and confusion, to anger, fear, and disbelief. So much of the grief journey occurs in the mind, but grief also takes a toll on the body. To help yourself grieve and stay on top of the things you “must do,” here are 9 helpful tips to keeping your body healthy while you’re healing emotionally.

Woman wearing orange sweater as she put together her weekly routine in her calendar planner

1. Establish a routine

Grief will throw your life and routine off balance, so you will need to re-establish a sense of normalcy after a loss. Routines provide a sense of peace and calm amidst the emotional upheaval. You know what’s coming and can enjoy the comfort of regularity. So, determine the best routine for you. This will support your emotional healing as you adjust to what life looks like after the loss of someone loved.

Young man at grocery store selecting apples to buy

2. Eat a healthy diet

You may be tempted to indulge in sweets and junk food when your emotions are in turmoil but try to maintain a healthy diet. Nourishing food will give you strength to face the difficult days and weeks ahead. When you feel good physically, you will also feel much better emotionally! Unless cooking helps you relax, you might consider meal prepping, so that you have less stress throughout the week.

Spoon with sugar in it and small dice with the words "Less Sugar"

3. Eat less sugar

As mentioned above, a healthy diet is important to caring for your body. But let’s take a moment to talk about sugar specifically. Sugar in moderation is completely fine, but research shows that too much sugar leads to mood imbalances, fluctuating hormone levels, and increased blood pressure and inflammation. In some people (higher risk in men), it can lead to depression. So, even if you can’t be completely healthy with your diet due to money, time, or energy levels, consider at least cutting back on the sugar.

Young woman drinking a glass of water

4. Stay hydrated

Much like food, water is essential to a healthy body. It’s actually even more important. The body can go 3-6 weeks without food but only around 3 days without water. So, as you’re grieving, make sure you stay hydrated. Plenty of water will help regulate your body temperature, assist with digestion, help you absorb nutrients, fight off illness, and improve mood. If you have a tough time remembering to hydrate, set timers or carry a water bottle around with you.

Attractive middle-aged woman sleeping in bed

5. Get plenty of sleep

Good sleep is essential for overall health and wellness. After a loss, you may lose sleep due to intrusive thoughts, stress, bad dreams, or anxiety. To promote sleep, try to create a comfortable, cool, and calm atmosphere at night. Over-the-counter sleep aids may also help. If nothing else works, consider talking to your doctor or therapist. For more suggestions, give “Sleeping Tips for the Grieving” a quick read.

Middle-aged man stretching at the park as he prepares to exercise

6. Exercise regularly

Exercise reduces stress and improves mood, which is important while grieving. If you participated in a regular exercise routine before the death of your loved one, try to continue. If you did not practice a lifestyle of exercise, start small. Take a walk, ride a bike, or pick up small hand weights. Even moderate daily exercise can help improve your mood and relieve stress. To learn more about the benefits of some form of exercise during a time of loss, go to “Can Exercise Help You Grieve?”

Middle-aged woman sitting on couch at home, mindlessly choosing something to watch

7. Avoid numbing activities

Unfortunately, for some, grief can trigger or exacerbate unhealthy coping habits. When these habits are unaddressed or go on too long, they can seriously affect your ability to live a healthy life. If you notice that you are using activities like overeating, drinking, addictive substances, or mindless TV/news watching to avoid confronting painful emotions, it may be necessary to seek assistance. Not only will these habits inhibit your ability to emotionally heal, but they may also affect your long-term physical health.

Mature man in casual shirt reclining on couch as he listens to music on headphones

8. Choose nurturing activities

Instead of numbing activities, engage in activities that feed your spirit and soul. Look for opportunities to do things that bring you joy or give you a sense of fulfillment. Spend time outdoors. Listen to uplifting music (skip the moody stuff for now). Take walks. Get a massage. Volunteer for a cause you believe in. Write in a grief journal. Express your emotions through creativity. Spend time in quiet reflection or meditation. All of these activities will soothe your mind, and in turn, keep your body healthy.

Young woman talking to therapist about her thoughts and feelings

9. Seek out support

If you are struggling with difficult emotions, such as depression, or need a listening ear, don’t hesitate to ask others for help. Trusted friends, family members, therapists, counselors, or grief support groups are all excellent resources to help you on your journey through grief. Grief is something we all go through, but we all experience it differently. You must find the methods that work best for you on your individual journey. Don’t compare your needs to someone else’s – simply find the healthy options that work best for you.

Hopefully these 9 tips will help you on the journey toward healing. It will take time, so be patient with yourself. As you do the work of grief by actively engaging with your emotions, you will begin to see that each day becomes a little brighter. You will never “get over” the death of your loved one; that’s not the point of healing. The goal is to come to terms with it, to make peace with it, and find renewed purpose and meaning in the remainder of your days.

Aug 16
Love0
Grandparents laughing with young granddaughter

The Importance of Laughter in Hospice Care

By Grief/Loss, Hospice, Living Well

When you or someone you love receives a terminal diagnosis, the last thing you may feel like doing is laughing. As the transition to end-of-life care begins, you may feel overwhelmed by various emotions, like fear, anger, sadness, or despair.

But a positive mindset and humor can improve the quality of life of a person in hospice, boost their physical and mental health, and help them cope with their new situation. As you and your family begin to process the terminal diagnosis, laughter – at appropriate times – can bring you together and help you grieve well together.

Here are four ways laughter and humor benefit those in hospice care. Plus, make sure you read to the end for some helpful tips for creating a positive atmosphere during this difficult time!

Benefit #1: Laughter helps you cope

adult daughter hugging and smiling with elderly father

Coping with a terminal diagnosis can be difficult for both a patient and their family. But humor can help you change your perspective and make the most of the time you have left together. While death is serious, end-of-life situations often come with weird, peculiar moments, and laughing at those situations can help you have a more positive mindset. Plus, humor is a positive coping skill that can show acceptance, rather than avoidance, of the situation.

Benefit #2: Laughter provides relief

elderly couple laughing together while watching a movie

Laughter can also benefit those in hospice by relieving stress and tension. When we’re in a stressful situation, we often hold in our emotions. These emotions build within us, creating pressure. Laughter releases that pressure and brings those emotions to the surface, providing relief from the stress and tension. This doesn’t mean that negative emotions disappear; instead, laughter helps us relax and cope with our emotions in a healthier way.

Benefit #3: Laughter boosts physical health

Two elderly friends laughing together outside

Most of us know the old cliche, “Laughter is the best medicine.” While this statement is an exaggeration, laughter does have some healing properties! Hospice is about improving a patient’s quality of life, and laughter can help. Laughter increases oxygen intake, which provides a boost for your internal organs, and it can alleviate pain by releasing positive endorphins. Plus, laughter helps boost your immune system, improve your blood flow, and burn calories – all of which can improve your health.

Benefit #4: Laughter connects you to others

group of elderly friends laughing in a circle

Have you ever seen or read something so funny that you had to share it with someone else? Humor has a way of bringing people together and creating connections. Laughing with others helps you let down your walls and be less defensive, encouraging you to be more vulnerable. Laughter can also decrease loneliness, which can be a big problem for some people in hospice care.

Laughing with others can also help decrease relationship tension and stress. During stressful situations, like coping with a terminal diagnosis, tensions can run high, creating conflict. Humor and laughter (at appropriate times) can alleviate tension in these difficult situations. Learning to make light of the awkward moments that may come with end-of-life care can help the patient, family, and hospice workers feel more comfortable with each other.

How can you create a more positive atmosphere?

Grandparents laughing with young granddaughter

After you or a loved one receives a terminal diagnosis, it may be hard to find ways to laugh. Here are a few different ways to incorporate more humor into your daily life.

  • Find humor in situations. Little funny things happen around us all the time, and finding humor in those moments is great! Just make sure that you’re laughing with someone, not at them.
  • Watch a funny TV show, movie, or video. Everyone has a different type of humor that makes them laugh. You can watch a favorite movie that you’ve always found funny or try something new!
  • Talk with kids. Kids can say the silliest things sometimes. If you have kids, grandkids, or know anyone with kids, take time to talk to them, play with them, and ask them questions.
  • Have a game night. Playing games with friends and family can often lead to shenanigans. Just stay away from Uno Draw Fours and Monopoly’s Boardwalk!
  • Share a cheesy joke. The best part of telling someone a cheesy joke or terrible pun is making yourself laugh! Even if no one else finds the joke funny, their groans are sure to make you laugh.

As you look to laugh more, remember that timing matters! Not everyone will feel like laughing during this time, and it’s important to be sensitive to the emotions of those around you – whether you’re the patient or your loved one is. Above all, focus on using laughter to create a positive atmosphere and mindset to make this difficult time a little easier for everyone.