Here We Are...with Luci

Life Beyond Breast Cancer: Healing The Mind, Body, & Spirit

CLICK HERE to listen to the Here We Are radio show episode, Life Beyond Breast Cancer: Healing The Mind, Body, & Spirit.

If you are lost in a dark tunnel trying to find a life beyond breast cancer, then this is the show for you or someone you love.

Guests, Debbie Woodbury, and Lockey Maisonneuve, explain how healing the mind of the emotional grip of this ordeal, coupled with rehabilitative exercise to regain one's control over the body can put you on a beneficial path beyond the experience.

As cancer survivors, these ladies have both been down this path and share vulnerable, difficult moments, as well as a positive, real, and honest insight on making the most after the medical procedures are over. Learn from the philosophies and approach they offer during their live seminars for women going through the same experience.

You are not alone... Listen to this informative show, like their Facebook pages, take an exercise class, and join this much needed community experience that Debbie and Lockey are leading. Gain from what these ladies are offering as you work toward healing the mind, body and spirit.

Debbie Woodbury is a breast cancer survivor who, like other survivors moving beyond treatment, asked herself the question: Where do I go now? Her answer: she created Where We Go Now, an interactive community for cancer survivors living life beyond cancer. Where We Go Now is a place to share and connect through Debbie's blog, reader comments, the Gifts and Losses List, and her page on Facebook at Where We Go Now.com with Debbie Woodbury. She is excited to be a part of the richness of lives lived beyond cancer.

Lockey Maisonneuve is a personal trainer and breast cancer survivor. Lockey created MovingOn exercise programs for breast cancer survivors after experiencing the challenges that go along with rehabilitation and side effects of chemotherapy and radiation. MovingOn exercise programs are THE final stage of recovery from breast cancer. You can find out about her classes and more at Moving On From Cancer, and Lockeys Moving On page on Facebook.

NOTE: The HWA October Gift of The Month, is being provided by Lisa Kasper of  Blue Moon Candles. To shine light on the need for a breast cancer cure, she developed the Hope Candle - made from organic veggie wax with Blue Moon's Pink Sugar scent, wrapped in a pink silk bag. Lovely in so many ways! One HWA email subscriber will win a Hope Candle. Profits from the Hope Candle sales go to the American Cancer Society.

 

[The claims made about specific products or procedures on or through this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease. The reviews and opinions provided on this show are for informational purposes only and are not intended as a substitute for advice from your physician or other health care professional. Please consult with a health-care professional before taking or administering any new product or treatment to yourself or anyone else.]

What's Your Number? An Easy, First Step To Living Chemical-Free

Shades of Chartreuse - Freshly Green Tips

In Real Estate, the value of a property is determined by three words, "Location, location, location." When it comes to living chemical-free in a chemical laden world, the three words that reflect the value of a product are, "Ingredients, ingredients, ingredients." No one wants to live next door to a chemical plant, so why put those same chemicals on your body? Colorful labels, beautiful packaging, and expensive price points mean nothing if a large portion of the ingredients are synthetic chemicals.

In January, the Shades of Chartreuse series was introduced to deliver practical, simple, inexpensive, and do-able ways to live greener. In an effort to live a healthier lifestyle, some of us try to buy organic, clean green, walk more, etc. While these are all valid choices, first, you must get naked. Got your attention? Studies show that the skin can absorb small to large amounts of topically applied product. This matters because what goes on the outside ends up on the inside.

What to do about it? The initial step - to decrease the amount of chemicals you expose your body to on a daily basis - is to take a COUNT. As you get dressed one morning, look at the chemical ingredients in each of the beauty and personal care products you put on your body. Be sure to make notes of the amount in each product (don't list the ingredients, just count them up). The biggest offenders will be obvious.

This simple, free, and do-able task might seem impractical, BUT it will become a mission once you begin... I guarantee that your eyes will pop open when you add up the chemicals from your shampoo to your foot cream (and don't forget the lip balm, hair gel, nail polish, hand soap, and so on). When you look at everything that touches your body, you will be amazed and stunned at the total number. This number will cause a shift in your viewpoint, and be a constant reminder from that day forward, in your approach to living well. Say goodbye to buying a product just because it smells good.

I did this exercise about a year ago. I counted every label, including my make-up (that stuff on your face goes into your body, too). Surprise!... Even with some natural products already in my beauty supply kit, my number was 632! And this didn't include hair coloring or the occasional self-tanning application. In a year, I've reduced my number to about 380 (and I'm still working to decrease it). I've had to eliminate a few creams that I really liked and non-essential items; but with some trial and error testing, I've found new ones that I love. You can, too!

Awareness is key to making healthier selections. Keep only the items you absolutely can't do without (there are very few that truly fit that category; for me, it's eye-liner), and start cycling out and replacing the rest with natural based products. It may take a while, but you can get dressed with confidence knowing you are living a cleaner, greener lifestyle, plus, you'll look and feel good doing it! Count them up and let us know your number!

[The claims made about specific products or procedures on or through this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease. The reviews and opinions provided on this show are for informational purposes only and are not intended as a substitute for advice from your physician or other health care professional. Please consult with a health-care professional before taking or administering any new product or treatment to yourself or anyone else.]

Energy Medicine: HOW-TO Tips To Help You Stay Healthy This Winter

Shades of Chartreuse - Freshly Green Tips

CLICK HERE to listen to the latest Health & Wellness episode, Energy Medicine: HOW-TO Tips To help You Stay Healthy This Winter, on the Here We Are Radio Show.

NOTE: To learn more about the basics of Energy Medicine, also listen to the popular HWA show Energy Medicine: The How, Why, & What of This Holistic Healing Method (original air-date July 2010). While both shows are independent of each other, the more you know about this amazing process, the more you'll want to use it!

What could be easier than protecting yourself from cold and flu season than using simple, "monetary and chemical" FREE exercises to help you stay healthy this winter? Don't worry, the exercises are simple, fast, and you don't have to go to a gym to do them! These techniques will help you with stress and keep the "highways of energy" in your body moving.

Guest, Marie-Christine Lochot, teaches us HOW-TO Tips that Energy Medicine practitioners use every day on their clients. Put them to good use to help you prevent catching a bug and stay strong this winter season. Living greener starts with your own body. Test them out and tell us what you think.

Marie-Christine Lochot is Nationally Certified in Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork, as well as Sports Massage. She has a successful private practice, Massage Montclair, in NJ, where she has helped hundreds of clients since 1994. In 2002, she began studying Energy Medicine with renowned Energy Healer and author, Donna Eden. Marie-Christine later became one of Donna Eden's teaching assistants, offering Energy Medicine workshops, which lead to her own thriving practice in Energy Medicine. Through her Energy Forum USA program, Marie-Christine is now bringing Energy Medicine directly to the workplace to help working professionals maximize their motivation and efficiency.

[The claims made about specific products or procedures on or through this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease. The reviews and opinions provided on this show are for informational purposes only and are not intended as a substitute for advice from your physician or other health care professional. Please consult with a health-care professional before taking or administering any new product or treatment to yourself or anyone else.]

Intuition: Intuit Through It Using This Important Sixth Sense!

Click the following link to listen to the Here We Are radio show, Intuition: Intuit Through It Using This Important Sixth Sense! (Note: There is a sound gap at the very beginning, but after a few seconds, the show is there for your enjoyment.)

Ever had that "feeling" that something wasn't right or a strange sense came over you that you just couldn't explain? That was your intuition sending you a message. We've all been there and experienced this "gut feeling" or "hunch." How can we learn to recognize, harness, and hone it for use in our daily lives? 

Guest, Cyndy DiBeneditto, Lightworker, Spirit Medium, and Psychic Intuitive, explains this natural ability that every one of us possesses. We discuss identifying the signals, clarifying the messages, and tips on how to strengthen our "sixth sense." 

In this very informative show, Cyndy helps us learn to separate imagination from intuition, listen to our higher self, and tune in to see the patterns. As women, if we can learn to trust it, it can be a valuable tool. She shares, "Feminine energy is receptive energy." 

In addition to teaching us about our intuitive skills, Cyndy provides examples of how she helps clients connect to loved ones who have passed. We cover what to expect during a session, how it works, and the benefits it can provide for healing. 

She advises, "Women are natural healers and natural intuitives... Be sure to fully express yourself and develop your innate abilities... The world is going to depend on us to get us through the next millennium." Thank you Cyndy, your advice during this show is a great place for us to begin developing this natural gift of guidance.

Cyndy DiBeneditto uses her gifts of psychic mediumship, intuitive reading, and teaching ability to work with clients to help them move on, gain insight, find peace, and feel empowered. Her mission is to combine a "mind, body, spirit" approach to the healing process. NOTE: During the introduction, I incorrectly announced Cyndy's website address; the correct site is All Is Well Inc [dot] com. Also, check out her blog, Psychic Medium Cyndy, or call to arrange a session at 848-340-4450.

Energy Medicine: The How, What, & Why of this Holistic Healing Method

Shades of Chartreuse - Freshly Green Tips

CLICK HERE to listen to the "Energy Medicine" episode on the Here We Are radio show.

The use of "Energy Medicine" is becoming more popular, but what exactly is it? How does one use it? And why is it different than massage, acupuncture, or reiki? 

We are all made up of "energy" and if it's flowing the wrong way, or clogged up, you are not operating at your full potential. In this show, you'll learn from my guest, Energy Healer, Marie-Christine Lochot, about this powerful holistic healing method and how it can help you. Her explanations and examples will make you say, "Aha, I get it now and I'll give it a try!"

There is a lot more than flipping a switch to feeling better and Energy Medicine offers a non-pharmaceutical option to our pill popping society. This amazing, natural process may just be the answer you've been searching for to feel better, work at optimal capacity, and cruise through your day without dimming out too soon. Tap into your own natural resource today!

Marie-Christine Lochot is Nationally Certified in Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork, as well as Sports Massage. She has a successful private practice, Massage Montclair, in NJ, where she has helped hundreds of clients since 1994. In 2002, she began studying Energy Medicine with renowned Energy Healer, Donna Eden. Marie-Christine later became one of Donna Eden's teaching assistants, offering Energy Medicine workshops, which lead to her own thriving practice in Energy Medicine.

[The claims made about specific products or procedures on or through this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease. The reviews and opinions provided on this show are for informational purposes only and are not intended as a substitute for advice from your physician or other health care professional. Please consult with a health-care professional before taking or administering any new product or treatment to yourself or anyone else.]

How Green Are You? Take The "Going Green" Poll

Take the new Here We Are "Going Green" poll. We want to know what you are doing or not doing to live a greener lifestyle. You can select up to 3 of the answers that you are MOST doing in your daily life.

There are no "right or wrong" answers, only an opportunity to share!

Time Management Equals Self-Care

CLICK HERE to listen to Luci's guest appearance with radio show host, Cynthia Johnston, of Women of A Certain Age with MoonMaid Botanicals, an informative show focusing on women's health and lifestyle issues. It was my pleasure to be her guest and my hope that this discussion will help other women make the most of their valuable time.

If you are a busy woman (and who isn't these days?), Ooops, I Forgot That Appointment, is jam packed with easy-to-do approaches and tips for better time management so that you can live a calmer, healthier, and fuller life. 

Feeling overwhelmed? Missing appointments? Not exercising? Are you stressed when trying to get out the door in the morning? Are your legs looking like Magilla Gorilla's? It's not a faulty memory or laziness, it's poor time management!

You'd be surprised how little adjustments in thoughts and routine can make a big difference in your daily life. Join me for my first radio interview as we explore ways to keep up with it all without sacrificing time for YOU! Ladies, this isn't selfish, it's self-care, and it is important.

NOTE: You may remember Cynthia Johnston from her helpful interview as a guest on the Here We Are radio show, Calling All Women: What You Must Know About Your Body & Synthetic Hormones and How Herbs Can Help. As an herbalist and owner of MoonMaid Botanicals, Cynthia makes personal care products that are good for the body, and good for the environment.

Have a time management tip? Share it on Here We Are, other women will benefit from your ideas.

T.I.M.E. = It's All About YOU

As regular readers of Here We Are, you know that a lot of our focus is on the precious commodity of "time." From time saving recipes for pasta salad and coconut macaroons, product reviews like the rice cooker, to expert advice on why taking the time to get a prenuptial agreement could affect the rest of your life, the "time" factor is important.

Over the last seventeen months, we have also discussed taking the time to reconnect with your female friends, ideas to make the most of a rainy day, tips to get busy Moms out the door, and many more "time" related solutions. While all this information is helpful to make your busy day-to-day life better, brighter, and easier, the most important factor regarding time is YOU.

Stop the clock!!! Now...Take it, make it, carve it out or apply any other euphemism you like. Just do it, and do it today or as soon as you can [not a joke].

For 10 minutes, 1 hour, or 2 days...Make it All About YOU and read, rest, relax, shut off, shut down, tune in, tune out, turn off, and remember the HWA formula:

T.I.M.E. = Taking an Intermission for My Enjoyment

What will you do with your T.I.M.E.?

A Happy St. Patrick's Day Wish

For each petal on the shamrock this brings a wish your way.

Good health, good luck, and happiness for today and every day.

~ Irish Blessing

Neti Pot: The Nose Knows Sinus Relief

Shades of Chartreuse - Freshly Green Tips

A post by HWA Contributor, Susan Ragazzo

You may have heard the buzz about the Neti Pot but are unsure of what it is or how it works. Simply stated, the Neti Pot is a nasal irrigation system. It is a non-medicated solution for post-nasal drip, sinusitis, and allergy sufferers alike. Saline solution is poured into one nostril, flowing through the nasal cavity, and exiting the opposite nostril. Yes, it sounds uncomfortable, but once you get the hang of it, it offers easy, inexpensive relief.

As a singer, if I get a sore throat before a performance, I am willing to try anything to find relief. In the past, I used the old standby remedies of tea with lemon and honey or gargling with salt water; however, these are treatments for after a sore throat hits. Enter -- The Neti Pot. Long before Oprah showcased it, my vocal coach suggested I try it.

At first, it was tough to get past the "gross out" factor, but it quickly became the lesser of two evils when pitted against medicinal alternatives. Using the Neti Pot, I was able to keep my sore throat at bay by breaking up any clogged mucus and keeping my nasal cavity well hydrated. Now I reach for it at the first sign of post-nasal drip. This nose has known relief ever since; and I have sung the praises of a Neti Pot to anyone who will listen.

If you are just curious or endeavoring upon your first attempt using a Neti Pot, here is the info you and your nose need to know for a pleasant experience:

 

1. Where do I buy a Neti Pot? You can purchase one at most local health food stores, drug stores, or at online retailers like this one on Amazon. There are different styles to choose from as well as starter kits for one-stop shopping.

2. What about water temperature? It is important to use warm water. Be sure the water is not too hot because you could scald yourself or too cold because this is uncomfortable. It might take a few tries before finding the right temperature for yourself. Don't be discouraged, discovering the correct water temperature goes a long way to easing this process.

3. Do I have to add salt to the water and does it have to be Neti Pot salt? Yes. Salt water is very important. According to Dr. Oz, the body's cells prefer salt water, and it aids in creating a more comfortable experience. [I can vouch for the discomfort when using unsalted water -- Don't make this rookie mistake.] You can use any non-iodized salt, kosher salt, or Neti Pot Salt. Mixing your saline solution is as simple as using the proper amount and type of salt as indicated by the directions accompanying your Neti Pot.

4. Are there other ingredients required to make the saline solution? Other than salt, no. There is an additive called Neti Wash Plus that can be purchased as an additive to the saline solution. It is made from herbal extracts, essential oils, and Xylitol, which has anti-bacterial properties. While Neti Wash Plus is not a required component of this process, you may like the additional "cooling, decongestant, and invigorating" benefits it offers.

5. Where does the saline solution travel after I start pouring it into my nostril? Ideally, the saline solution should travel in one nostril and out the other. Do not be concerned if water comes out of your mouth during a rinse. This is normal and can be eliminated with the proper head alignment. Check out this video from the Himalayan Institute.

6. What do I do after rinsing the saline solution through both nostrils? A brochure should be included with your Neti Pot, but you will want to blow your nose to expel excess water. The video in answer #5 also demonstrated body poses to help remove residual water from your nasal cavity. These poses are not a requirement, but are strongly recommended. 

Once you incorporate a Neti Pot into your health regimen, it will become the star of your medicine cabinet. It is now a ritual for me to reach for the Neti Pot when post-nasal drip begins to make an appearance. My nose looks forward to the relief it provides so I can keep on singing. La, la, la, la...

Have you tried a Neti Pot? Share your tips. Was it a good or bad experience? Do you use the Neti Pot Plus? If so, do you feel a difference? How often do you use it?

[The claims made about specific products or procedures on or through this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease. The reviews and opinions provided on this show are for informational purposes only and are not intended as a substitute for advice from your physician or other health care professional. Please consult with a health-care professional before taking or administering any new product to yourself or anyone else.]

10 Easy Tips To Stay Healthy This Winter

A Guest Post by Marie-Christine Lochot, NCTMB (republished with permission)

We are almost half-way through this winter season. Some people enjoy each day while others struggle to maintain their physical health and mental well-being. If you are counting the days until springtime, then try these 10 easy tips to help you be well this winter.

1. A good night's sleep is more important than ever. Studies show that half of Americans are sleep deprived. Eight hours a night is the goal. Interestingly, the hours spent sleeping before midnight are the most beneficial.

2. Eat warm, nutritious food. Cold foods like ice cream, salads, and iced drinks use a lot of energy to digest.

3. In traditional Chinese medicine, winter is "kidney" season. A few of the most beneficial foods to eat at this time are: shellfish, black beans, toasted walnuts. {Please avoid these foods if you have allergies.}

4. Keep exercising, especially walking, even when it is cold outside (or visit your local mall and window shop as you walk indoors). Try to take the stairs instead of the elevator. Short on time? Remember that taking mini-exercise breaks of 5 or 10 minutes several times a day is very effective.

5. Keep stretching. Establish a 10 minute routine every day of slow, easy stretches.

6. Think you are coming down with something? Using your fingers, tap the sides of your body for 1 to 2 minutes.

7. Laugh and have fun with family and friends. This will boost your immune system.

8 & 9. Keeping a positive attitude and expressing gratitude - inwardly and outwardly - are two of the most powerful things we can do to take care of ourselves. 

10. Treat yourself to a massage or an energy balancing session!

Like a lot of things, the more of these tips you practice, the better you will feel. Start today and enjoy the rest of the season, it will be over before you know it!

10 Tips On How To Be Good To YOURSELF This Holiday Season

A Guest Post by Marie-Christine Lochot, NCTMB (republished with permission)

No matter which holiday you celebrate, 'tis the season to take care of yourself. Here are 10 easy tips to get you through the hustle and bustle of the next six weeks!

1. Stick to your exercise routine. If you don't have one, walk at least 30 minutes a day -- preferably outside.

2. Take a break to breathe. Sit down, close your eyes, inhale through the nose, exhale through the mouth. Repeat for 5 minutes.

3. Eat before attending a party or dinner. Have a healthy snack so you are not too hungry when you get there.

4. Increase your intake of fruits and vegetables. Start now and continue every day between parties and dinners throughout the season.

5. Indigestion? Place your hands on top of each other between the base of the sternum and navel. Rotate in a counterclockwise direction a few times and then reverse to a clockwise direction. Continue the motion for a few minutes.

6. Quick Refresher: rub your hands together for a few seconds and then lightly rub your face.

7. Shopping: Remember that it is the spirit of the Holidays which matters most, not the gifts.

8. Give and receive a foot rub from a loved one.

9. Get a massage before the holidays to reduce stress, then again afterward to recover AND to center yourself for the new year.

10. Enjoy the Holidays!

Live fully and savor the present moments as the future is so unpredictable. We can reduce the stresses in our lives and be nicer to ourselves, to our bodies, and to our souls, with a few simple steps. 

Here is a quote by Etty Hillesum to start you on your way:

Ultimately, we have just one moral duty: to reclaim large areas of peace in ourselves, more and more peace, and to reflect it toward others. And the more peace there is in us, the more peace there will be in our troubled world.

Soy Perfect? Not So Much - The Hidden Dangers of Soy

Do you really know what you are eating? I am not trying to insult you, but unless you are only eating "whole" foods there is always a chance something unexpected is present. Short of reading every label and understanding each ingredient, you run the risk of consuming ingredients you don't want or need.

We all know about sneaky sodium, MSG, saturated fats, preservatives, etc. Did you know that soy, for some, can be a less than healthy choice. "Soy what? I don't eat soy," you say? Maybe you do and don't know it. Surprise! It is an added ingredient in numerous products.

Even if you think you are doing a good thing and eat soy because you read or heard it is the perfect health food, it may not be so perfect for you! I learned this the hard way after consuming soy milk in my coffee and cereal for the past few years. I felt bloated and often had heart palpitations; neither had ever been an issue for me. Luckily, I heard a radio interview with author, Dianne Gregg. She was discussing how her life threatening experience with a soy allergy prompted her to write The Hidden Dangers of Soy.

During the interview, she described what I was experiencing. I ceased using soy milk and started searching product labels for hidden soy. Sure enough, besides the obvious soy milk culprit, I discovered it lurking in my favorite kettle corn popcorn, energy bars, and several cereals. Since then, my diet is soy free and my symptoms are gone.

Dianne has done extensive research on this subject and her mission is to share this crucial information with others. Here is a brief, but fascinating, excerpt from the book:

It's disguised in everything from hamburgers, hot dogs, baby formula, flour, and much more. It's often marketed as low-fat, dairy free, or as a high protein meat substitute for vegetarians. The soy derivatives you need to look for are textured vegetable protein (TVP), partially hydrogenated soybean, soy protein isolate (SPI), hydrolyzed vegetable protein (HVP). One of the dangerous substances in the soybean is phytic acid, also called phytates. These acids block the body of essential minerals like calcium, magnesium, iron and especially zinc. But, you never hear about that.

Her message to everyone is "if you are not feeling like yourself, and have symptoms such as nausea, bloating, gastric disorders, unusual weight gain, palpitations, shortness of breath, or lack of energy, it's worth trying to eliminate soy from your diet for a period of time to see if it is contributing."

Thank you Dianne for sharing your experience and reaching out to help others. The book is an informative, eye-opener, which will have many people saying "so long soy" after reading it.

[The claims made about specific products on or through this show are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease. The reviews and opinions provided on this show are for informational purposes only and are not intended as a substitute for advice from your physician or other health care professional. Please consult with your health-care professional before taking or administering any new product to yourself or anyone else.]

The Last Hoorah

September tries its best to have us forget summer. ~ Bernard Williams

Enjoy the long weekend...finish that novel, take a long walk, have drinks with friends, sleep late, kiss someone, breathe deeply, have fun.

Indulge yourself, you deserve it!

A Moment of Zen

The journey of a thousand leagues begins from beneath your feet. ~ Lao Tzu, Father of Taoism (6th Century B.C.)

Calling All Women: What You Must Know About Your Body & Synthetic Hormones and How Herbs Can Help

Shades of Chartreuse - Freshly Green Tips

CLICK Here To Listen To This Important Show at the Here We Are Radio page

Feeling out of sorts? Hot? Sweaty? Just plain tired? Herbalist, Cynthia Johnston, may help you find the answer to your questions. Listen along as Cynthia helps us understand the effects of synthetic hormones on the body and how we can counteract them - the natural way. We uncover simple ways to live healthier no matter what your age.

Cynthia has been an herbalist for 15 years devoting herself to working with women and their families as they deal with hormone related issues. Herbs came into her life as a young teenager searching for a natural way to deal with severe asthma. She is the owner of MoonMaid Botanicals, offering natural products that are good for the body, and good for the environment.

Whether you listen on Here We Are or at our radio show page, you will come away surprised and enlightened about this confusing topic. Enjoy and stay healthy in a more natural way!

[The claims made about specific products on or through this show are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease. The reviews and opinions provided on this show are for informational purposes only and are not intended as a substitute for advice from your physician or other health care professional. Please consult with your health-care professional before taking or administering any new product to yourself or anyone else.]

Cold and Flu...10 Easy Tips to Keep The Germs Away

While there are only two months of winter left this season, those nasty germs that cause cold and flu are still alive and well waiting to infect another victim. Don't let this be you!

Here are a ten tips to keep those bad bacteria and venomous viruses away:

1. Pens - Don't use the pen a store clerk hands you to sign a receipt. Always have your own at the ready.

2. Gloves - Buy a reasonably priced leather pair that allows for easy movement. Wear them always and everywhere when you go out. Chances are you won't touch your eyes, mouth, or nose while wearing gloves, so it won't matter what you touch in the store, in the library, or that much used entrance door handle at work. 

Remember I said "reasonably priced?" At the end of the season, throw the gloves out. If you use them in this manner, they will be dirty; no need to store them with your freshly cleaned coat. This may seem wasteful, but not more so than missing a week of work due to the flu. $ SAVING TIP: Buy a pair or two now while everything is on end-of-the-season sale and put them away for the next fall.

3. Credit Cards - Don't hand your credit card to a store clerk to swipe for you. Try to swipe it yourself using the new automatic swipe machines. If the clerk is sick, when they hand you back your card, it is the same as if you shook hands and you just put their germs into your wallet.

4. Water Bottles - This is a simple prevention step. Mark the label or tear it off so you know which bottle is yours. Don't risk drinking out of Typhoid Mary's bottle.

5. Soap Dishes - If you are using bar soap in your house, be sure to put the soap dish through a dishwasher cycle every week or so. A soap dish is a festering spot for germs because of all the hands touching it and the stagnant moisture.

6. Liquid Soap Pumps - Think you are free of the "soap dish" germ dilemma? The pump on the liquid soap dispenser is a hot spot for germs because everyone touches it before they wash. $ SAVING TIP: Use a paper-towel/cotton swipe with Rubbing Alcohol to wipe the pump top clean. It is cheap and a natural disinfectant.

7. Cell Phone - Use Rubbing Alcohol to wipe it down periodically throughout the year. Try not to share your phone with anyone during cold and flu season.

8. Hand Washing - This is the obvious answer to prevent infection, but what if you aren't near a sink? Keep a travel size bottle of Purell Hand Sanitizer handy. I like the individually wrapped Nice 'n Clean packets. No worry of spills or leaks, and they easily fit in a pocket, glovebox, or briefcase.

9. Public Serving Utensils - If you are attending a buffet or selecting your greens at a salad bar, DON'T use the utensils that everyone is using. If possible, use the fork and spoon you will use to eat with to also serve yourself. If you washed your hands before lunch, it is meaningless if you then touch the serving utensils at the buffet. Those germs are now accompanying you at the table as you reach for that freshly baked roll.

10. Toothpaste Tube - If someone in your household is sick, give them their own tube of toothpaste. Most people inadvertently touch the tube to their toothbrush when squeezing out the paste. The next person who then comes along to polish their pearly whites also gets a dose of germs!

Hope these tips help keep you healthy! Please add any tips you use to stay away from germs.

Holiday Stress…Breathing Through Chanukah, Christmas, and Kwanzaa

 

If you feel like Chanukah, Christmas, and Kwanzaa are beating the clock and your list of to-do’s is growing, then take a moment and breathe. Breathe deeply, slowly, and with purpose. While there is less than a week to go before the three big holidays arrive one after the other, it is important for you to make the time to reduce your holiday stress. Notice the key words, “make the time?” Do something special for your health and wellness today, even if it is for just a few minutes. Simply take a long hot shower, have a cup of herbal tea, write in your gratitude journal, or call a friend, all the while remembering to breathe. Go ahead, you deserve it…and do not worry; everything that is important will get done, even if it isn’t perfect.

I found this quote and thought it interesting since Jane Austen wrote it nearly two hundred years ago. It stopped me from being swept up earlier this week in a whirlwind of activity and put things into perspective. I hope it does the same for you!

Life is just a quick succession of busy nothings.
        Jane Austen (1775 - 1817)
        Mansfield Park