Take the Time....

                                                            Take the time to listen
                                                            To the nature in your soul
                                                            The birds sweet whistle in the air
                                                            The beauty of the whole
                                                            As wheels roll along the path
                                                            Of life's adventure song
                                                            Behold the beauty of the journey
                                                            And where we each belong
                                                            Notice all that makes you smile
                                                            All that makes you cry
                                                            Things that make you laugh and shout
                                                            and ask the questions why
                                                            Tell those you love,
                                                            how you feel
                                                            and pause along the way
                                                            To reflect upon the beauty
                                                            you can find in every day
                                                            Though challenges will visit
                                                            sometimes it's the hills
                                                            That provide our greatest growth and strength
                                                            amidst our best laid wills
                                                            And as we move along our path
                                                            Someday we will see
                                                            How every step within our walk
                                                            Creates our Life Journey

                                                                Kristi Haertl

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Health and Fitness Information


*Both nationally and in academic institutions during the pandemic we are seeing a great increase in mental health concerns. Be sure to know where to reach for help, and too we can all help one another by being trained in mental health first aid. There are local organizations that provide training- contact me if you have questions.

*Past research published in PLOS One (I am a reviewer for this medical journal), found that obese individuals with Type 2 diabetes don't have to engage in heavy exercise to see improvements, studies have shown that lighter intensity activity with less sedentary behavior provided lasting benefit.  In addition, a separate study in Circulation (another peer reviewed scientific journal), found that faster, longer walks can provide significant benefits in reducing cardiovascular disease

* A study reported in a 2017 edition of the Journal of Cognitive Neuroscience found that regular high intensity training such as HIIT boosted the memory of young adults.  We have so much compelling research on not only the positive physical but also the positive mental benefits of exercise!

* The IDEA Fitness organization published an article (April 2014) on the role of sleep in recovery from stress and heavy exercise. Sleep facilitates the muscle-building effect of exercise through increating protein synthesis along with returning the nervous system to a relaxed state. It also enhances immune function. It is advantageous to get at least an average of 7 hours of sleep per night (not more than 9).

*Omega 3 fatty acids are important for a healthy diet. They are essential fatty acids from polyunsaturated fats. They help build cell membranes in the brain and facilitate hormone proeuction that regulates inflammation, contraction and relaxation of arterial walls and blood clotting. Salmon, tuna, walnuts, canola oils and green vegetables are all good sources.

*The above information is for educational purposes only and is not meant to replace the advice of your physician or health professional.

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Blessings and Beauty to you this summer!
Kristi