*update- November 21, 2024*
Happy Thursday friends! For today's Thursday Health Thoughts Post I wanted to re-share a post that was originally written here on the blog in 2016 about the Importance of Laughter for our health. While this post was written in the midst of my personal fight for health and physical life, I have found myself revisiting the wisdom of this for every single day. Even after healing, it remained true for my life the importance of this- and the wisdom of finding laughter for your health.
*original post from 2016*
Shortly after I was diagnosed with Advanced Late Stage Lyme Disease and Cancer I went to work reading many different books and doing tons of research (which I am sure everyone does!). My research kept pointing me to Norman Cousins book, "Anatomy of an Illness" so I definitely made a point to read this book. I was inspired and amazed by his story and would definitely recommend it, no matter anyone's diagnosis or even if you are completely healthy.
If you are not familiar with Cousins' story, he was diagnosed with a debilitating disease where his body would literally fuse together. It was incredibly painful and he was told it was incurable. Cousins shared that doctors only gave him a 500 to 1 chance of recovery.
Despite these discouraging odds Cousins implemented his own "treatment" and eventually recovered! In his book he discusses the entire method of what he did but one of the things that he writes about is the influence that laughter had on his healing process. Cousins (after he obtained his doctors' approval) chose not to stay in the hospital but he stayed in a hotel room (near the hospital) and in addition to his diet and vitamins he gave himself (as he termed it) "laugh therapy". Cousins watched and read anything that would bring him laughter. Overtime he started to see that for every ten minutes of laughter he would have a couple of pain free hours!
Isn't that incredible??!?
If you are not familiar with Cousins' story, he was diagnosed with a debilitating disease where his body would literally fuse together. It was incredibly painful and he was told it was incurable. Cousins shared that doctors only gave him a 500 to 1 chance of recovery.
Despite these discouraging odds Cousins implemented his own "treatment" and eventually recovered! In his book he discusses the entire method of what he did but one of the things that he writes about is the influence that laughter had on his healing process. Cousins (after he obtained his doctors' approval) chose not to stay in the hospital but he stayed in a hotel room (near the hospital) and in addition to his diet and vitamins he gave himself (as he termed it) "laugh therapy". Cousins watched and read anything that would bring him laughter. Overtime he started to see that for every ten minutes of laughter he would have a couple of pain free hours!
Isn't that incredible??!?
Every 10 minutes of laughter brought him a couple of pain free hours!! I was amazed when I read it!
Now, before I receive a ton of emails stating that this is not physically possible I do want to say that I do understand that when you are in pain and not feeling well it is sometimes hard to find the laughter. I do understand.
Seriously, I do.
But as I read the following statistics and information I was convinced again about the importance of finding laughter in our difficult and painful health circumstances.
Doctors say that laughter:
(1) can distract attention away from illness or pain
(2) can reduce tension
(3) can change a persons expectations by encouraging a different outlook
(4) can increase the production of endorphins which is the bodies natural pain killers
(5) can help the immune system in unexplained ways
(5) can help the immune system in unexplained ways
There are even some hospitals around the United States have even incorporated "laughter programs" to help their patients heal. There was an article several years ago about a Catholic hospital in Texas where nuns told funny stories to patients on a daily basis so that they would feel better and heal more quickly. The results and statistics in this hospital were astounding. Patients recovered faster, there were less complications, and patients were more inspired to fight for their lives despite grim diagnosis'.
Honestly, I do understand how difficult some days can be when you are hurting and sick or sick and tired of feeling sick and tired. There are times where tears are even to painful to cry. Life hurts and is messy and extremely difficult. But one of the things that shocked me to learn in my research was that it actually takes more effort and energy not to smile then it does to smile and laugh.
This really impacted me as my energy levels are so low and I try and do everything possible to not waste my little energy. Learning that it takes forty-three muscles to frown but only seventeen to smile is honestly a huge game changer. Does that mean that I don't cry or have moments where I am not laughing all of the time? Absolutely not. BUT it does mean that I have fought to find joy and laughter throughout each day and I truly believe that makes a difference in this healing journey.
This really impacted me as my energy levels are so low and I try and do everything possible to not waste my little energy. Learning that it takes forty-three muscles to frown but only seventeen to smile is honestly a huge game changer. Does that mean that I don't cry or have moments where I am not laughing all of the time? Absolutely not. BUT it does mean that I have fought to find joy and laughter throughout each day and I truly believe that makes a difference in this healing journey.
So what are some ways that you can find laughter ~ especially on days where it feels like that is the absolute last thing you want to do? Here are a few ideas:
* watch funny movies
* read funny books
* read the comics
*talk with friends and loved ones who bring laughter
* read funny blogs
(seriously, some are hilarious!)
* find the joy in simple things
Scamper, my kitty can make me laugh with things that he does. There are so many simple things that you can find to laugh about. An extra note... if you have never read the health post on the benefits of owning a pet click HERE!
* avoid the drama
I actually have chosen to gather facts about things that are happening worldwide but limit my "doomsday news reading"/ social media scrolling. I also have chosen to not watch anything that would cause stress, tension, or negative thoughts to go into my life.
* try not to take things so seriously
I am preaching to the choir on this because with being ill it can be difficult not to do this. I have learned though that if you look for the bad you will find it but if you look for the joy you can find joy.
* keep old emails, article clippings, letters, etc. that bring joy and laughter to look at often
* laugh at yourself
I have shared my endometriosis story here on the blog and to this day I will never forget a situation that happened during this intense time period. My mom and I were in a very populated mall when I received the phone call that the surgeon (from across the country) would accept me as a patient but would not be able to have an appointment available for an additional three months. This was devastating news as we were hoping to get in immediately and my mom and I sat down and bawled our eyes out right there in the middle of the busy mall. As we realized that people were staring at us we looked at each other and started to giggle and then couldn't stop laughing. To this day we laugh about this incident. Don't be afraid to step out and laugh!
I have shared my endometriosis story here on the blog and to this day I will never forget a situation that happened during this intense time period. My mom and I were in a very populated mall when I received the phone call that the surgeon (from across the country) would accept me as a patient but would not be able to have an appointment available for an additional three months. This was devastating news as we were hoping to get in immediately and my mom and I sat down and bawled our eyes out right there in the middle of the busy mall. As we realized that people were staring at us we looked at each other and started to giggle and then couldn't stop laughing. To this day we laugh about this incident. Don't be afraid to step out and laugh!
* choose to laugh at the hard and absurd of your health journey
I have had doctors and specialists tell me the most insane things and there is a time for standing up and making a declaration (like I did about that Real Housewives of Beverly Hills episode) but there is also a time for choosing to laugh at the hard and absurd.
I have had doctors and specialists tell me the most insane things and there is a time for standing up and making a declaration (like I did about that Real Housewives of Beverly Hills episode) but there is also a time for choosing to laugh at the hard and absurd.
One time, during an intense part of my health journey I had a check up with one of the doctors that I saw for routine health things. I hated seeing this doctor, but to keep some insurance requirements and because I was in the ER so often at that time I had no choice. I am not kidding when I share that during one appointment this doctor said, "so my treatment plan is working then? I told you that Lyme Disease didn't exist and all you needed was some rest in bed".
Now did I take a moment to share about Lyme Disease and advocate it in a respectful way? Yes.
BUT instead of letting this dictate my emotions for the next day or week, I simply laughed about it with friends later. As one of my friends said, "who knew that to cure Lyme and Cancer all you needed was a couple of years in bed?" Seriously, we laughed until we cried and then we did cry for a few minutes and then we made the decision to laugh some more. Don't let someone steal your joy and laughter.
Where do you find laughter? I would love to hear your thoughts and ideas! Happy Thursday friends!
If you're lucky enough to have a driveway in your home, you will appreciate the importance of proper care and maintenance. After all, a poorly maintained driveway can damage your car, reduce aesthetics and curb appeal, and increase the risk to the safety of everyone who lives in or visits your property.
By staying on top of regular maintenance, you can ensure your driveway remains in top condition, enhancing the overall look and safety of your property. But what are the best driveway maintenance tips? After all, driveways can be made from a variety of different materials and resources, so each one will require different care and attention to keep it looking good and in great condition.
These tips, however, can point you in the right direction.
Clean
Basically, keep the driveway clean and free of debris or obstructions that can damage the surface and reduce its usability. You can use a stiff brush to brush away rubbish and surface mess, a power washer to clean away dirt, or invest in specific tools for different surfaces to help clean the driveway.
Be Careful With Chemicals
This is especially important when using chemical-based deicer products or cleaning products in general. The more chemicals you use, the more likely your driveway is to sustain damage that may require repairs.
Opting for non-chemical alternatives for cleaning not only protects your driveway but also the environment. Power washing and steam cleaning can be a good alternative, as can using natural deicing products on the ground such as sand or kitty litter to give you the traction you need instead of using salt or chemical deicers.
Seal and Repair
Driveways require ongoing upkeep, such as resealing the surface, to keep them looking good and prevent them from deteriorating. Whether you need Concrete Overlay Supplies to fix and reseal your concrete driveway or an acrylic or epoxy sealant, ensure you are reselling and repairing the damage sustained to avoid the issue worsening and causing more damage to your vehicle or property.
Remove Moss
Moss grows on driveways because they provide the ideal conditions for it to develop due to their moisture retention in gaps or joints. Effective sealing can eliminate this, as can filling in holes when they appear. However, you need to remove moss as it can be dangerous and slippery. Using a mixture of one-part bleach and three-part water on the area can be effective in removing moss. Apply the solution to the area, leave for 5 minutes, then use a brush to scrub the moss away.
Remove Weeds and Roots
Immediate action when weeds and roots appear is key to maintaining a healthy driveway. If you have a garden or lawn close to your driveway, roots, and weeds of trees and plants can impact your driveways and cause damage. In some cases, the last thing you want is for roots and weeds to take over the driveway, causing issues in usability. Pay attention to unsightly weeds close to the edge or in between paving bricks and move them as soon as they appear. Be aware of tree roots, if applicable, so you can monitor them to see if they make their way toward your driveway, and you can address the issue with an arborist.
*contributed post*
In today’s fast-paced world, finding solace at home has
never been more important. A luxurious stay-at-home retreat can be achieved
through thoughtful design and the right furnishings, with the bed being the
centerpiece of this sanctuary. By transforming your bedroom into a relaxing
haven, you can enhance your well-being and create an inviting space for rest
and rejuvenation. In this guide we will be exploring bed options,
bedding styles, and decor tips to help you craft the perfect retreat.
Choosing the Right Bed Frame
The
foundation of any luxurious bedroom is the bed frame. Your choice will impact
not just aesthetics but also comfort and functionality. Here are some popular
options:
1. Platform Beds
Platform beds are known for their minimalist design and sturdy
construction. They often come with a built-in foundation, which eliminates
the need for a box spring. This type of bed provides a low profile, giving
the room a contemporary feel while ensuring strong support for your
mattress.
2. Canopy
Beds
For those who want to add a touch of elegance, a canopy bed is an
excellent choice. These beds feature posts at each corner, allowing you to
drape fabric for a soft, romantic look. Canopy beds can make your space
feel cozy and intimate, enhancing the retreat vibe.
3. Sleigh
Beds
Sleigh beds are characterized by their curved headboards and footboards,
which add a classic touch to your bedroom. This design is often made from
solid wood, ensuring durability and timeless appeal. A sleigh bed can
anchor your space while providing a warm, inviting atmosphere.
4. Adjustable Beds
If comfort is your top priority, consider an adjustable bed. These beds
allow you to change the position of your mattress to find the most
comfortable angle for sleeping, reading, or watching TV. Many adjustable
beds also come with massage features and programmable settings for a
personalized sleep experience.
Selecting the Perfect Mattress
Once
you’ve chosen your bed frame, it’s time to select the right mattress. The
mattress plays a crucial role in achieving quality sleep and enhancing your
overall retreat experience. Consider the following types:
1. Memory Foam Mattresses
Memory foam mattresses conform to your body shape, providing excellent
support and pressure relief. They are perfect for those who suffer from
joint pain or require extra cushioning. Look for high-density memory foam
for durability and long-lasting comfort.
2. Latex
Mattresses
Latex mattresses offer a buoyant feel and are highly responsive. They are
naturally hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites, making them a great
option for allergy sufferers. Additionally, latex mattresses tend to have
a longer lifespan than other types.
3. Hybrid
Mattresses
For those who can’t decide between memory foam and innerspring, a hybrid
mattress combines both technologies. With a supportive coil system and a
layer of foam on top, hybrids offer the best of both worlds: support and
comfort.
4. Innerspring Mattresses
Innerspring mattresses are traditional and widely available. They provide
good support and are typically more breathable than foam options, which
can be beneficial if you tend to sleep hot. When choosing an innerspring
mattress, look for one with pocketed coils for added comfort and reduced
motion transfer.
Luxurious Bedding Essentials
The
bed is not complete without luxurious bedding. Selecting high-quality linens
can elevate your sleep experience and enhance the overall aesthetic of your
retreat.
1. Sheets
Choose sheets made from natural materials, such as cotton or linen. Look
for a high thread count (at least 300) for added softness and durability.
Egyptian cotton and bamboo sheets are particularly luxurious options that
offer breathability and comfort.
2. Comforters
and Duvets
A plush comforter or duvet adds warmth and style to your bed. Opt for down
or down-alternative fill for a cozy feel. Consider a duvet cover in a
pattern or color that complements your bedroom decor, making it easy to
switch up the look of your space.
3. Pillows
Don’t underestimate the power of pillows! Invest in a variety of pillows
for head, neck, and lumbar support. Use a combination of different
materials, such as memory foam, down, or latex, to cater to your sleeping
style. Decorative throw pillows can also add a pop of color and texture.
4. Throws and Blankets
Layering your bed with throws and blankets can enhance its visual appeal
and comfort. Opt for soft materials like fleece or chunky knit for a cozy
feel. Drape a blanket over the foot of the bed or across the back for a
stylish touch.
Creating a Calming Atmosphere
A
luxurious stay-at-home retreat is not just about the bed; it’s also about
creating an atmosphere conducive to relaxation. Here are some tips for
achieving a calming bedroom environment:
1. Color Palette
Choose a soothing color palette for your bedroom. Soft, muted tones like
pastels, earth tones, or neutrals can create a tranquil setting.
Incorporate these colors into your bedding, wall paint, and decor for a
cohesive look.
2. Lighting
Lighting plays a crucial role in setting the mood. Consider using dimmable
lighting fixtures or adding soft bedside lamps for a warm glow. Candles
can also enhance relaxation and create a spa-like atmosphere.
3. Declutter
A clutter-free space is essential for relaxation. Invest in stylish
storage solutions to keep your bedroom organized. Use baskets, bins, or
decorative boxes to store items out of sight, creating a serene
environment.
4. Natural Elements
Incorporate natural elements into your bedroom design. Houseplants can
purify the air and add a refreshing touch. Natural materials, such as wood
or stone, in your furniture or decor can also promote a sense of calm and
connection to nature.
Personal Touches
Finally,
adding personal touches can make your retreat feel uniquely yours. Consider
incorporating elements that reflect your personality and style:
1. Artwork
Hang artwork or photographs that inspire you or evoke positive emotions.
Choose pieces that resonate with your sense of comfort and tranquility.
2. Sentimental
Decor
Display decor items that hold sentimental value, such as travel souvenirs
or family heirlooms. These personal touches can make your space feel more
inviting and special.
3. Comfort Items
Add items that enhance comfort, such as a plush rug, soft slippers, or a
cozy reading nook. These small details can make a significant difference
in your overall retreat experience.
Conclusion
Creating
a luxurious stay-at-home retreat with the perfect bed involves careful
consideration of bed options, mattress types, bedding essentials, and decor
elements. By focusing on comfort and aesthetics, you can transform your bedroom
into a tranquil sanctuary that promotes relaxation and rejuvenation. Embrace
the opportunity to design a space that reflects your personal style and
enhances your well-being, turning your home into the ultimate getaway.
Whether you’re preparing yourself for long-term travel or heading out on a weekend getaway, there are plenty of steps that you can take to ensure your trip is truly unforgettable, even with a specific budget in mind.
Photo by Mesut Kaya on Unsplash
Here are some tips you can follow to make that happen!
Book ahead for popular attractions
Booking ahead for popular attractions is one of the easiest ways to ensure your trip is everything you want it to be, especially if you are traveling during peak season.
Furthermore, booking in advance often means that you can gain access to exclusive discounts and deals, which means you have much more money to play around with. Otherwise, you’ll have to pay on the door, which can be much more expensive!
Read reviews before booking…anything
Whether you’re looking for a place to sleep or a fun activity to pass a few hours during your trip, read any reviews left by previous tourists before booking or paying for anything. After all, this can help you to avoid paying for activities that aren’t anything like they’re advertised. If you can’t find any reviews on the site where the activity/hotel is advertised, check out third-party platforms such as Trustpilot.
Find the best food spots in each destination
When planning a trip, you may be focusing on ticking off destinations and attractions from your bucket list, which often means that food and dining are an afterthought. For example, it could be that you settle for eating at whatever restaurant (or fast food chain) you come by when hunger kicks in. While this is understandable from a practical standpoint, you’re missing out on quite a lot, especially if this means you’re failing to try out the local cuisine.
As such, you should research local restaurants and eateries carefully when planning your trip. For example, if you’re visiting Delaware, you could enjoy the best lunch in Wilmington De by visiting the Quoin Restaurant.
Don’t experience your vacation through your phone screen
While it's normal to snap a few photos here and there during your trip, there comes a time when you should put your phone down and allow yourself to live in the moment. After all, you traveled in order to see these sites in person, not through your phone screen.
Put together a loose itinerary
One of the great joys of traveling is that you don’t have to stick to a rigid schedule. However, you should put together some kind of itinerary in order to ensure that you’re able to work your way through all of the activities on your to-do list. Otherwise, it could be that you’re forced to skip specific attractions or activities as you have a limited amount of time on your hands. When putting together an itinerary for your trip, try to choose the best time to visit each location (ideally outside of peak hours).
In short, there are many steps that you can take that will allow you to make your next vacation the kind of trip you’ll remember for the rest of your life!
*contributed post*
Health is the foundation of a happy and fulfilling life for families, whether you are a parent, sibling, or caregiver. It is important to support your loved ones in their health journey for their well-being and the family's overall happiness. Health encompasses more than just physical fitness; it also includes mental, emotional, and social well-being.
Photo by Pavel Danilyuk: https://www.pexels.com/photo/a-couple-stretching-their-legs-while-looking-at-their-cute-daughter-7220529/
From encouraging healthy habits to navigating medical challenges, there are many ways in which you can support your family’s health. In this discussion, we will explore various approaches to promote a healthy lifestyle and make informed decisions regarding medical procedures.
Promote Healthy Habits from the Start
The foundation of good health always begins at home. If you want your family to lead a healthier lifestyle, it is important to establish healthy habits early in life. Research shows that developing good habits such as regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and sufficient sleep is essential for long-term health. Here are some practical ways to promote healthy habits within your family:
Encourage Physical Activity: Whether it’s participating in sports or engaging in fun family activities like hiking, biking, or dancing, physical activity should be a part of your family’s routine. Both children and adults should aim for around 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week to build strength and maintain fitness. This means you should be doing physical activities two or more days per week.
Provide Nutritious Meals : Making healthy food choices is vital. Ensure that fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are easily accessible, encouraging your family to make better dietary decisions. Family meals are a wonderful opportunity to model healthy eating behaviors. Research suggests that eating together can improve not just the quality of your meals but also your relationships.
Make Sleep a Priority: Sleep is essential for both physical and mental health. Adults should aim for at least seven to nine hours of sleep per night, while children require more depending on their age. To support healthy sleep, establish a regular bedtime routine, avoid caffeine before bed, and limit screen time in the evenings.
Mental Health is Important
Mental health is just as critical as physical health. It’s essential to take steps to support your family’s emotional well-being, as mental health struggles such as anxiety, stress, or depression can significantly impact overall quality of life. Here are some ways you can help:
Foster Open Communication: Encourage your loved ones to express their feelings and let them know it’s okay to speak up if they need help. Make it clear that they are not alone if they ever feel overwhelmed. Open communication also helps reduce the stigma around mental health issues and improves the emotional well-being of your home.
Encourage Stress Management: Life can be stressful at times, and it’s important to teach your family that it’s okay to feel this way as long as they have strategies to cope. Whether through mindfulness, exercise, relaxation techniques, or, in some cases, medication, helping your family find healthy ways to manage stress will make them more resilient when facing challenges.
Seek Professional Help When Needed: Sometimes, mental health challenges require professional assistance. If you notice signs of depression, anxiety, or other mental health concerns, encourage your family members to seek counseling or therapy. Early intervention can lead to significant benefits and help prevent more severe issues down the line.
Health Screening and Preventative Care
One of the most important actions you can take for your family’s health is to ensure they have regular checkups and screenings. Preventative care allows health problems to be detected early, making them easier and less expensive to treat. Regular screenings can help monitor your family’s health and identify potential risks before they become serious issues. Make sure all family members, including children, receive regular physical exams and address any concerns you may have. Screenings for breast cancer and other types of cancer are crucial for early detection. Additionally, do not overlook dental and vision care; regular visits to the dentist and optometrist will help keep your family’s teeth and vision in good shape.
Support for Chronic Health Conditions
Living with a chronic health condition can be challenging and can take a toll on both individuals and their family members. Whether you or a loved one has diabetes, asthma, arthritis, or another condition, providing emotional support and practical assistance can make a significant difference. Here are some ways to support your loved ones:
Educate Yourself About the Condition: The more you understand the health condition, the better you can support your loved ones. Learn about the symptoms, treatment options, and any lifestyle changes that may help them manage their condition effectively.
Assist with Daily Tasks: Chronic health conditions often come with physical limitations. Offering help with daily tasks, such as providing transportation or preparing meals, can relieve some of the burdens your loved ones may face.
Encourage Treatment Plans: If your loved one is following a treatment regimen, such as attending therapy sessions, encourage them to stay on track. Offer reminders and be a listening ear whenever they need to talk.
Supporting Cosmetic and Aesthetic Concerns
While mental and physical health are the primary focus of a family's well-being, cosmetic and aesthetic issues can also significantly impact an individual's self-esteem. For instance, hair loss is a common issue many people face as they grow older. If a loved one is feeling self-conscious about their appearance due to thinning hair or hair loss, supporting them in exploring options to restore their confidence can be very meaningful.
If your family member is considering a hair transplant, it’s important to assist them in making an informed decision. Hair transplants can be life-changing procedures that help individuals regain their confidence and restore their hairline. The cost of hair transplantation can vary based on the extent of the procedure, the surgeon’s experience, and the location of the clinic.
However, conducting thorough research on costs and recovery expectations is crucial before proceeding with such a procedure. Hair transplants may not be suitable for everyone, and alternative treatments like topical solutions and lifestyle changes may also help. Regardless of the path they choose, ensure that you support your loved one’s decision and help them feel comfortable with the choices they make.
Be A Role Model
As the person leading your family's healthy journey, it is essential to set a positive and inspiring example for them to follow. Your actions often speak louder than words, and your commitment to living a healthy lifestyle will encourage your family to do the same. Whether you are making nutritious food choices, participating in physical activities, or seeking medical advice when needed, your behavior can influence your family's health in many ways.
The Health-Conscious Home Environment
The environment you create at home plays a significant role in supporting your family's health. A health-conscious home environment goes beyond providing nutritious meals and opportunities for exercise; it involves creating a space that encourages well-being in all areas of life. You can limit exposure to harmful substances, promote active family time, and encourage habits such as going for a walk after dinner instead of watching television. Additionally, creating relaxing spaces, like a cozy reading nook or a peaceful garden, can help everyone unwind and relax.
Optimize Indoor Air Quality: Poor indoor air quality can negatively affect respiratory health, particularly in children and those with allergies or asthma. It’s a good idea to include air purifiers and houseplants to improve the air quality in your home. Research shows that enhancing indoor air quality can reduce the risk of illnesses and improve mental wellbeing.
Encourage Hydration: Water is essential for maintaining bodily functions, so staying hydrated significantly impacts energy levels, digestion, and skin health. Make water easily accessible around your home and encourage family members to drink it regularly. You can make it more enjoyable by infusing water with fruits or herbs, motivating both children and adults to drink more. Always offer water as the first choice of beverage, especially for children.
Use Non-Toxic Cleaning Products: Many conventional cleaning products contain chemicals that can harm both your health and the environment. Choose natural, non-toxic cleaning products to minimize exposure to harmful substances. This choice can help prevent skin irritation, respiratory issues, and long-term health complications associated with harsh chemicals. Consider using essential oils for cleaning, as they can purify your space and create a calming atmosphere.
Create a Tech-Free Zone: Designate certain areas in your home, such as the dining or family rooms, as tech-free spaces. This can foster more mindful interactions and improve relationships. Encourage face-to-face communication during meals or family gatherings, as it can boost mental health, reduce stress, and strengthen family bonds.
Incorporate Natural Light: Natural light is crucial for boosting mood and sleep quality. Aim to fill your home with as much natural light as possible by using light curtains or blinds and positioning furniture near windows to take advantage of sunny days.
Conclusion
Supporting your family's health requires a multifaceted approach that addresses physical, mental, and emotional well-being. From promoting healthy habits to supporting different health conditions and discussing cosmetic concerns seriously, being an active participant in your family's health journey is crucial. This involvement can lead to a happier, healthier home. Take the time to listen to your loved ones, encourage healthy habits, and be a source of support when challenges arise. Your active participation will make a lasting difference in your family's overall well-being and health.
*contributed post*
Happy Tuesday friends! I hope your week is going well! I am still overwhelmed by the excitement from my post in August all about Creative Reuse shops and reviewing these places! I am so excited that y'all are so excited about this travel series! These stores are truly a treasure trove for artists, teachers, creators, homeschool and creative mamas, and anyone who loves to create. You can find a map of all of the shops HERE!
If you would like to know just basic facts about the this shop please just scroll down to the bottom of the post where I will be sharing basic information to help those who want to know more specifics about each of the creative reuse shops and some tips from each store!
Today I am sharing more about the Pittsburgh Center for Creative Reuse which is located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Mom and I stopped there last October on our 2023 Eastern Fall Road Trip!
We purposefully drove to Pittsburgh after being in Cleveland, Ohio just to go visit this Creative Reuse store and to see a quick bit of Pittsburgh. For a time reference from where we were in the Cleveland area to this creative reuse center it was only about 2 hours away.
This store had so many fun offerings of all different types of craft and art resources and items. You can see from the pictures that while the space from the outside looked small, as soon as you entered you could tell that it was HUGE. We only had allotted about 2 hours in this space and we ended up staying right till they closed (which was about 3 and 1/2 hours) and we could have stayed longer!
Things are very organized, despite the amount of items and there were so many things to look through! Honestly, you could find so many different items depending on your craft/work/hobby here. It was truly filled with so many things and I loved the way that people had donated these items to be reused instead of just throwing them out into a landfill!
The prices were fair from our experience in visiting so many different creative reuse stores and the people and workers were friendly and helpful. One of the neat things with the workers that we interacted with was they truly seemed genuinely interested in what people were making and creating. As some people walked in we heard them telling people things like, "Joe, we got in more of _________" or "Kate, I saw that there were some photographs that came in that you might like for your mixed media projects." It was neat to hear as there was obviously a community that was common there and we were welcomed right into that. One of the workers asked us what we were making and creating and when we explained they started showing us all different things around the shop. Definitely a fun creative community experience!
It is definitely a place that we would go to visit again and I definitely recommend it! If we were within a couple of hours of this store we would definitely make a trip back there- the prices were fair and the unique assortment of items definitely was a fun treasure hunt experience that we had!
......PITTSBURGH CENTER FOR CREATIVE REUSE SHOP INFORMATION......
LOCATION:
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
214 N Lexington Street / Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15208
HOURS FOR SHOPPING:
Open everyday from 11am-5pm
TYPE OF SHOP:
Total craft experience: numerous items for crafting/mixed media/lots of different projects and types of creating and creating art of any and all kind
YEAR OPENED:
2008- read history HERE
MISSION:
(taken from their website)
Pittsburgh Center for Creative Reuse is a non-profit that inspires creativity, conservation, and community engagement through reuse.
We operate a non-traditional art supply shop located at the intersection of Wilkinsburg, Homewood, and Point Breeze, where people can donate used art and craft supplies, as well as shop for these unique items all in the same location. We also facilitate hands-on creative programming that educates the public about the benefits of reuse for the environment, community, and self. We see reuse as a vehicle for boosting self-confidence, learning new skills, and creating opportunity for all.
KEY DISTINCTIVES:
*none noted*
COST:
Compared to other shops we have tried and visited, the prices were fair even compared to shops around the country that exist in large and expensive cities.
PARKING:
There was street parking that was nearby, but on certain days of the week you couldn't park there. There were limited spots, but this might be a bit difficult depending on the time or day that you go.
CROWDED?:
It was busy when we were there.
DISABILITY /CHRONIC ILLNESS FRIENDY?:
Absolutely yes. The aisles were wide enough that a wheelchair could fit through. Another unique item about this shop is that from 11am-12pm each day they ask everyone to mask to provide a safer environment for immunocompromised individuals. As a lady who was very sick with an immune compromised situation and loved crafting - but at one point couldn't risk the tiniest germs- this is a really beautiful thing that they offer to everyone. They also offer online shopping for those who may not be able to make it into the store.
Thank you so much for reading today friends! Please let me know if you have any questions about Creative Reuse Shops or the Pittsburgh Center for Creative Reuse specifically! I am happy to answer and can't wait to hear about your creative reuse shop adventures! And again, if you would like to read about other Creative Reuse Shops that I have written about on the blog click HERE or click on the links below:
Have a wonderful day friends!
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