Taking Care of our Emotional Hygiene

Americans are obsessed with hygiene!! “Embracing cleanliness became a patriotic duty for Americans during the Civil War ….and by the 1920’s personal fastidiousness became an American obsession.(source). The global pandemic is escalating our cultural OCD and Americans are cleaning and disinfecting more fervently than ever (try finding 409 these days)!! But, as the pandemic goes on, what are we doing about our emotional hygiene? Alcoholism, anxiety, depression, domestic violence, and suicide rates are rising as a result of feeling isolated, angry, lonely, and helpless with many things out of our control. So how can we help ourselves emotionally?

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My Birthday Skydiving Adventure!

skydiving
I didn’t take many photos but here is the drop zone. The landings are so precise, that you land between the flags.

I was born with an adventurous spirit and each year I honor it by flying somewhere fun and exotic for my birthday. However, with the Covid lockdowns around the world, flying was not possible!!! I pondered this and  thought, “Well, I CAN’T fly in an airplane for my birthday – but I CAN jump from one”….So, I went SKYDIVING. I love experiencing things (even though I am typically terrified) and it’s not everyday you get to jump out of an airplane at 13,000 feet. Plus….it’s one gift I won’t have to return (LOL).

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5 Exceptional Podcasts to Help you Through the Corona Virus Pandemic

It’s been over 3 weeks since the Covid-19 shelter in place restrictions were announced in California. Our routines were uprooted overnight as we face a new uncertainty. Many are anxious and scared.  Rather than focusing on fear we could use this time to go deeper. For example, meditate, keep a journal, stretch, read, cook, spend time with family and listen to podcasts.  I’m using these 5 exceptional podcasts to get through this time.

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5 Ways to Stay in Shape During the Shelter at Home Quarantine

stay in shape during covid quarantine

Many gyms and fitness studios are closed due to the Covid-19 pandemic. As a person who loves to exercise, this was a BIG adjustment for me. So, I’ve had to change up my routine and find other ways to stay active during the shelter at home quarantine. Here are the 5 ways to stay in shape and maintain your mental and emotional health during this strange time.

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5 Ways to Thrive During the COVID19 Quarantine

thrive during covid quarantine

(photo by Julie Hammer)

We are in extremely uncertain and scary times with the COVID-19 virus and recent shelter at home quarantine orders. Uncertainty of this magnitude can easily overwhelm us with anxious energy (not good for the immune system). So, how can we forget the hysteria and emanate peace during this crisis? First, it’s important to remember  that even the slightest amount of calm energy can balance the fear.  

As Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh explains: “When the crowded Vietnamese refugee boats met with storms or pirates, if everyone panicked all would be lost. But if even one person on the boat remained calm and centered, it was enough. It showed the way for everyone to survive.”

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My Husband Went Vegan for a Week: Here’s What Happened!

Several months ago, my husband and I watched The Game Changers, an inspiring documentary about elite athletes that were vegan (read more about that here). After the film, my husband said he wanted to, “go vegan” for a week. I’ve never pushed my way of eating on him, but in the 25 years we’ve been together, this was a first!!!

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When Things Aren’t Going Your Way, Pull This Out and Read it Again!

words-of-wisdom

Once in awhile you come across powerful life lessons. This is one of those times. Read this through once, breathe deeply and read it again. Let her wisdom sink in and settle somewhere deep. It’s a strong antidote to many of our struggles. Then whenever you need a pick me up, pull this out and read it again! 

Written by Regina Brett , 90 years old, of the Plain Dealer, Cleveland , Ohio …

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Do Vegans Get Enough Protein? Watch The Game Changers

Ever Wonder How Vegans Get Enough Protein?

If so, you are not alone. As a vegan, I’m frequently asked:

“But How do You Get Protein?”

Or someone might dismiss the idea saying:

“Oh – I Could Never be Vegan, I Need my Protein”

So I’ve written this post for anyone who is unsure about how vegans get protein.

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15 Habits for a Keeping a Tidy “Vegan” Kitchen  

tidy kitchen
(this is not my kitchen but a lovely one from Pinterest – author unknown)

Neatness Counts

I admit that I’m a little OCD at times (OK — mostly) and I feel best when my house is neat and clutter-free. Not only does clutter have it’s own energy (that weighs you down) but excess “stuff” makes house cleaning more burdensome. This is especially true in the kitchen.  I like my counter tops free of gadgets (no bulky coffee machines or mixers). If I can’t find storage for it under the counter, then I’d rather live without it. My refrigerator is also neat and clutter-free. I avoid buying in bulk by shopping more frequently. Not only for fresher vegetables, but for a less crowded fridge that’s neatly organized.

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How to Make Celery Juice without a Juicer

celery juice at home

You KNOW celery juice has gotten trendy when the local health food store charged me $8 for a 16 oz cup.…um….no thanks!!! I think I’ll make it at home!!! Problem is…..I don’t have a juicer!!!! I considered buying one on Craig’s list until I learned how EASY it is to make it at home using my ol’ trusty (barely working) blender and a nut milk bag……Yippee….

Since I believe drinking celery juice is one of the healthiest habits you can have, making it at home is a huge TIME and MONEY saver (although I saw organic celery priced at $4.99 a bunch the other day…how crazy is that?).

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