Take time to reflect
Do you feel like something in your life is off, but you’re not sure what? Maybe you feel like your brain is racing all the time. If you think of thoughts and feelings like these as warning signs, learning to practice reflection is a holistic approach to bettering your overall health.
What is reflection?
Reflection looks like different things to different people. Some people call it mindfulness. Maybe it’s thoughts of gratitude. Reflection can be a mantra you repeat. It can be a time to focus on your breathing. If you’d like, it can be an affirmation of your faith or prayer. What’s important is you take time for yourself. Take a step back from your ongoing tasks. Turn your attention to yourself. Listening deeply to your mind, body and soul comes with many health benefits.
What are the benefits?
Researchers at the University of Cambridge found that learning to pause and reflect can reduce anxiety, depression and stress. Taking five to 10 minutes to reflect has physical benefits as well. According to the Journal of the American Heart Association, calming meditation may play a role in reducing the risk of heart disease. With these facts alone, you may be ready to jump into this practice.
How can you reflect?
Sit quietly with your eyes closed. Start to inhale and exhale deeply. Relax your muscles. Settle your body and mind. Begin your reflection for the day. This can be as simple as one word: peace, love or kindness. You can recite a prayer. Ask yourself a question. No matter your focus, try to center your thoughts around only that. If your mind starts to wander, take another deep inhale. Bring your thoughts back to your reflection. Give yourself grace. This requires practice. You will get better in time.
When you first begin practicing, you may feel uncomfortable with silence. If you normally put others’ needs ahead of your own, it can feel strange. Set aside any bad feelings. Remember, to serve others, you must also tend to your needs. Your body and mind will thank you.
As always, talk with your primary care provider if you are experiencing any health issues.
Want more breathing tips? Read our Daily Breathing article at genesishcs.org/breathing.
Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.
Do you feel like something in your life is off, but you’re not sure what? Maybe you feel like your brain is racing all the time. If you think of thoughts and feelings like these as warning signs, learning to practice reflection is a holistic approach to bettering your overall health.
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Wintertime Blues: Are They Real?
It’s chilly outside, and the days are getting shorter. Do you dread winter because you get the blues? If you had the blues or felt depressed the past two winters but feel better in the spring and summer, you may have seasonal affective disorder, or SAD, a type of depression that occurs during the same season each year.
Can SAD be prevented?
Because the onset of winter is predictable, people with a history of SAD might benefit from starting treatments before the fall season to help prevent or reduce depression. Regular exercise is one of the best things you can do for yourself. If the sun is shining, try to get outside. Being active, especially early in the day, may help you have more energy and feel less depressed. Symptoms come and go at roughly the same times every year, which is an easy way to track when it’s time to add to your physical activity.
What causes SAD
Scientists don’t fully understand what causes SAD, but research indicates it might be from reduced activity of the brain chemical serotonin, which helps regulate mood. Research also suggests that sunlight controls the levels of molecules that help maintain normal serotonin levels. In people with SAD, this regulation does not function properly, resulting in lower serotonin levels in the winter.
Other findings suggest that people with SAD produce too much melatonin, a hormone that is essential for maintaining the normal sleep-wake cycle. In people with SAD, the changes in serotonin and melatonin levels disrupt normal daily rhythms. As a result, they can no longer adjust to the seasonal changes in day length, leading to sleep, mood and behavior changes.
Vitamin D is believed to promote serotonin activity. Few foods in nature provide vitamin D, but it’s in egg yolks and canned fish. The body produces vitamin D when exposed to sunlight on the skin. With less daylight in the winter, people with SAD may have lower vitamin D levels.
Who gets SAD
Millions of adults may suffer from SAD, although many might not know they have the condition. SAD occurs more often in women, and it is more common in those living farther north, where there are shorter daylight hours in the winter. It’s most common in people between the ages of 15 and 55, and the risk of getting SAD for the first time goes down as you age. In most cases, SAD begins in young adulthood and sometimes runs in families.
Treatments are available that can help many people with SAD. Talk to your healthcare provider about which treatment is best for you.
Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.
Do you dread winter because you get the blues? If you had the blues or felt depressed the past two winters but feel better in the spring and summer, you may have seasonal affective disorder, or SAD.
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Air fryer BBQ cauliflower wings
These air-fryer “honey” BBQ cauliflower wings will be a hit at your next tailgate party. The wings have the flavor and crunch of traditional BBQ wings but contain fewer grams of fat and calories. While these cauliflower wings have the taste of honey, they have no added sugar since they’re sweetened with an artificial sweetener.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsweetened soy or almond milk
- 1/8 tsp kosher salt
- 10-ounce package of cauliflower florets
- 1/3 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/8 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
Nutritional information:
- Servings: 4
- Serving Size: 4 ounces cauliflower wings
- Calories per serving: 80
- Total Fat: 1.5 g
- Saturated Fat: 0 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Sodium: 230 mg
- Total Carbohydrate: 16 g
- Dietary Fiber: 3 g
- Total Sugars: 4 g
- Added Sugars: 0 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Potassium: 450 mg
- Phosphorus: 90 mg
Instructions:
To make the wings: Preheat air fryer to 375 degrees F. In a medium bowl, whisk together batter ingredients. (If batter is too thin, add a little more flour and stir.) Add in cauliflower florets and toss to coat each piece evenly.
Spray basket of air fryer with nonstick cooking spray. Using tongs, place each batter-covered floret into the basket. It’s best to work in two batches so you don’t overcrowd the air fryer. Air-fry each batch for 7 minutes, then remove and brush cauliflower wings with your preferred sauce. Return to air fryer another 1–2 minutes until crispy.
Remove and repeat for the next batch.
Approved by:
Sarah Brauning, MS, RD, LD, CDE
Genesis Registered Dietitian
Diabetes & Nutrition Education
Find more recipes at genesishcs.org/eatwell.
These air-fryer “honey” BBQ cauliflower wings will be a hit at your next tailgate party.
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Sweet treats of the season
Nothing screams summer quite like fresh fruit. From juicy watermelons to plump peaches to a rainbow of fresh berries, summer recipes featuring fruit look and taste delicious. Make sure your fruit-based recipes are top-notch with these tips for choosing the best fruits this summer.
The selection process
Whether you’re visiting the grocery store, farmers market or roadside stand, it’s important to know how to choose fresh fruits. Some signs of poor-quality fruits are obvious, like brown spots or cuts. However, each fruit has its own checklist to ensure you get the freshest, most delicious option.
Peaches
Look for brightly colored peaches. Avoid peaches with green skin as this is a sign they were picked too soon. Once you’ve identified a peach with the right coloring, squeeze it gently. If it’s firm, it might need more time to fully ripen. If it’s soft, it’s ready to eat.
Storage:
Store peaches at room temperature stem side down.
Watermelons
Experts recommend using the “Look, lift and turn” strategy when choosing a watermelon.
Look – Choose a watermelon that is firm and doesn’t have any bruises or dents.
Lift – Pick the watermelon up to gauge its weight. It should feel firm and heavy.
Turn – Turn the watermelon over and check for the ground spot. Make sure the spot is yellowish in color instead of white.
Storage:
You can store a whole watermelon on your counter at room temperature. Once it’s been cut, the halves or slices should be stored in the refrigerator.
Blackberries
Look for berries with a deep color, and make sure to double-check for any crushed or bruised berries in your package.
Storage:
Store your blackberries in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for two to three days. Wash them before using them.
Strawberries
If you’re buying your strawberries from the grocery store, make sure to smell them to get the freshest and most flavorful batch. Choose berries that are bright red with green leaves. Avoid berries that are green or white as strawberries don’t ripen after they have been picked.
Storage:
Strawberries won’t stay fresh for longer than 24 hours if you leave them on your counter, so make sure to pop them in the refrigerator for maximum shelf life. Don’t wash your berries until you’re ready to use them.
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How to pick and store the best summer fruits.
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What’s in season
Farmers’ markets, produce stands and backyard gardens are some of the best places to get seasonal fruits and vegetables. In fall, we eagerly visit apple orchards to pick, or pick up, a bushel or a peck (we love both). With our freshly picked fruits, pumpkins, squash and other fresh root vegetables, we make seasonal salads, pies and other delicious dishes from recipes passed down through generations. Aside from pleasing your tastebuds, there are benefits to eating what’s in season.
Health benefits of eating what’s in season
Seasonal food is typically fresher, tastier and more nutritious than eating it when it’s out of season. Vegetables and fruits out of season in our area are typically picked early to ripen on the long journey to our grocery stores. Researchers at Montclair State University found that the vitamin C content of broccoli is cut in half when it’s shipped out of the country compared to when it’s sourced locally.
Locally grown fruits and vegetables last longer in the fridge and on countertops. That’s because they’re harvested and in your hands well before produce from a different state or country. Produce that can fully ripen on the vine has more nutrients, making it healthier for us to eat. Buying local produce tastes better, lasts longer and has a higher nutritional value. That sounds like a win-win-win.
What’s in season in the fall?
There are plenty of delicious, nutritious foods harvested this time of year. Here’s a list that includes the vitamins and minerals in many fall favorites, courtesy of the United States Department of Agriculture:
Apples – a great source of vitamin C, fiber and antioxidants.
Cabbage – contains antioxidants, calcium and vitamin B.
Cauliflower – a good source of folate, vitamins B, C and potassium.
Potatoes – a good source of potassium and vitamin C.
Pumpkins – rich in vitamins A, B1, B6, C and E, potassium and the antioxidant beta carotene.
Winter Squash– rich in vitamins A and C.
Supporting local farmers is good for the economy and our health. It’s also reassuring to know where our food comes from by buying locally.
Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.
Aside from pleasing your tastebuds, there are benefits to eating what’s in season.
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How to combat motion sickness
Are you planning a fall cruise, road trip or vacation? Don’t let motion sickness bring your plans to a halt. It’s reported that one in three people are prone to motion sickness, so it’s a good idea to be prepared before you hit the road (or the high seas.)
What causes motion sickness?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, motion sickness happens when the movement you see with your eyes is different than the movement your inner ears sense. This mishap can result in dizziness, nausea, irritability and even vomiting. Yuck. Thankfully, there are ways to ease your symptoms and maybe prevent them altogether.
Try these tips and tricks:
If you’re in a car or bus, try to sit as close to the front as possible. Facing the direction you’re traveling and focusing on a non-moving object can ease your queasiness.
If you’re on a boat, cruise ship or airplane, stick to the middle of the vessel. This will help reduce the ups and downs of the water or air.
Hydration helps. Avoid alcoholic beverages and caffeine until the chance of motion sickness subsides.
Bring lozenges or mints to ease your tummy.
Listen to music to distract yourself.
Who suffers the most?
Children are especially at risk of suffering from motion sickness, and it appears to run in families. There are hundreds of parent posts on social media dedicated to both natural and medicinal remedies. Many parents says that it’s often a case of trial-and-error to find something that works. Check with your family doctor if giving an over-the-counter product to a child under the age of 18 is suggested.
According to a 2018 study published in the National Library of Medicine, antihistamines with the lowest level of sedation are the treatment of choice for adults experiencing vertigo, nausea and vomiting.
The U.S. Travel Association predicts domestic leisure travel will increase through 2024. Hopefully, you’ll be taking a trip to see friends, spend time with family or visit a destination you’ve always wanted to explore. Bookmark this article to keep motion sickness at bay when you’re on an adventure.
Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.
Are you planning a fall cruise, road trip or vacation? Don’t let motion sickness bring your plans to a halt.
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Turkey stuffed peppers
Ingredients:
- 6 large bell peppers
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth, divided
- ¼ cup tomato sauce
- 1 ½ cups cooked brown rice
- 6 tablespoons low-fat, sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 lb. 93% lean ground turkey
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 medium onion, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
Instructions:
- Heat oven to 400°F.
- Lightly spray olive oil in a medium nonstick skillet on medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic and sauté for 2 minutes. Add ground turkey, salt, pepper and cumin and cook for approximately 5 minutes until the meat is cooked.
- Add ¼ cup of tomato sauce and ½ cup of chicken broth, mix well and simmer on low for about 5 minutes.
- Turn off the heat and add cooked brown rice.
- Cut the tops off the peppers. Remove all seeds. Spoon the meat mixture into each pepper evenly. Place peppers in a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Pour the remainder of the chicken broth on the bottom of the pan. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for about 35 to 40 minutes or until the internal temperature is 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Remove from the oven, add a tablespoon of shredded cheese to the top of each pepper, and bake for 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted.
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 499 calories
- Total Fat: 35 g
- Sodium: 946 mg
- Cholesterol: 131 mg
- Carbohydrates: 24 g
Approved by:
Maurine Maneely,
Registered Dietitian
Find more recipes at genesishcs.org/eatwell.
Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.
Try this delicious fall recipe.
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Got (Dairy-Free) Milk?
The question, “Got milk?” now comes with a follow-up question: “What kind of milk?” Due to dietary allergies, intolerances, diet preferences and environmental concerns, many people are turning from cow’s milk and drinking plant- and nut-based milk alternatives. The number of people with dairy-related digestive issues continues climbing. Experts estimate that 68% of the world’s population struggles with lactose absorption.
Thankfully, in recent years, a plethora of milk replacements have become available and accessible. Dairy-free milk products span from soy, coconut, almond, oat, rice, pea, hemp and quinoa bases. These diverse dairy-free products come in various brands, product types and flavors, which also means a variety in nutritional value.
Dairy-free milk alternatives are not equal in nutritional value
In April 2022, McGill University published a new study comparing the nutrition in cow’s milk to the four most common milk alternatives: almond, rice, soy and coconut milks. While cow’s milk came out with the highest nutritional value, researchers recognized unsweetened soy milk as the most nutritious dairy-free milk option.
In the McGill University study, researchers found that pea- based drinks contained the most phosphorus (which helps create, maintain and repair tissues and cells), selenium (which helps make DNA and protects against infections) and zinc (which helps create DNA, builds proteins and supports a healthy immune system).
The study also showed that soy milk contained the most magnesium (which supports our muscle and nerve functions) and protein.
Pick your milk options carefully
Nutritional value varies from brand to brand amongst dairy-free milks. Even within the same alternative milk base and the same brand, there are differences. That’s why it’s important to read labels carefully. While manufacturers may fortify some dairy- free milks with vitamins and minerals, others come with added sugars or artificial sweeteners. For example, many almond and hemp milks contain 13 g of sugar per cup. Paying close attention to labels will help you milk the most nutrition out of your milk alternative.
Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.
Discover the healthiest milk alternative.
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Solutions for common foot problems for women
Your feet do a lot of work. Whether walking, standing or exercising, your feet put in long hours. Here’s a look at some of the most common foot problems for women and ways to reduce foot pain.
Possible pain points
1. Adult-onset flat feet
- When the posttrial tibial tendon, which helps hold up your arch, begins to break down, it can cause a painful flattening of the arch. Symptoms might include pain and swelling, often on the outside of the ankle. If not treated, the pain can intensify.
2. Heel pain
- Heel pain tends to be caused by overuse, so the best treatment is prevention. Experts suggest replacing athletic shoes after they have about 300 miles on them, even if they still look new.
3. Nerve problems
- Sometimes compressed nerves in other parts of the spine or legs can also cause foot symptoms. Be sure to tell your physician about any other problems you’re having when seeking help for foot problems.
4. Bunions
- Bunions begin with a leaning of the big toe, gradually changing the angle of the bones over the years and slowly producing the characteristic bump.
5. Plantar Fasciitis
- Heel pain is often caused by plantar fasciitis. Faulty foot structure is the most common cause of plantar fasciitis. In women, it may result from wearing nonsuppurative shoes, such as flip-flops and ballet flats.
How to Avoid Foot Pain
1. Try a foot bath
- Warm water and Epsom salts may be just the ticket to alleviate foot pain and sore muscles. It can even reduce swelling in your feet.
2. Stretch
- Try stretching exercises to help your sore feet. Stretching can prevent cramping and promote flexibility.
3. Exercise
- Keeping your feet flexible and strong is key to avoiding foot pain. Walking regularly for exercise is the best way to keep your feet limber and healthy.
4. Switch your shoes
- Your shoes could be the culprit of your foot pain. Wearing shoes beyond their life span, the wrong style or an incorrect shoe size can impact the health of your feet.
5. Ice your feet
- Icing your feet can reduce inflammation that causes soreness. Apply ice to sore feet by filling a plastic bag with ice or rolling your feet on a frozen water bottle. Try to ice the affected area for 5 to 15 minutes a few times a day to help reduce inflammation.
6. Contact your doctor
- Contact your doctor if you suspect a more severe foot condition or if you have severe foot pain. If you have diabetes and experience foot pain, call your doctor immediately.
Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.
Here’s a look at some of the most common foot problems for women and ways to reduce foot pain.
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Five ways to stay active during winter
When it’s too cold, icy or cumbersome to take that walk around your block, consider this: One and a half hours of strength exercise a week in the comfort of your home can account for the walk you might be missing out on due to bad weather. A study at the University of Michigan showed that 95% of participants confirmed that adverse weather curtails their workout, which is why we suggest strength training indoors during the cold season.
Many may have an at-home gym. For those who don’t, the weight training we refer to requires little to no equipment. It ranges from using your body weight and adding resistance bands to small dumbbells. The National Institute of Health suggests that weight training exercises performed intermittently will lessen the risk of cardiovascular disease.
“Patients who perform aerobic exercises have a lower risk of developing heart disease compared to those who aren’t as active,” said Duane Pool, M.D., Board-certified in Cardiovascular Disease, at Genesis Heart Lung & Vascular Institute.
Before you try out our top five indoor strength exercises, check with your doctor first for the regimen that’s right and safe for you.
Deep squats
Squats are a great way to build your quad muscle. When muscle mass increases, it encourages oxygen circulation and alleviates the load on the heart. Start by standing with your legs shoulder-width apart and dip both hips in a downward motion as if sitting on an invisible chair. Hold the position, raise and repeat.
Wall pushups
Wall pushups are a great way to tone the arms. Stand arm’s length away from a wall while facing it. Stretch your arms. Keep your palms against the wall, shoulder-width apart. Using your body weight, push yourself toward and away from the wall.
Leg lifts
Resistance bands are budget-friendly and easy to use. Best of all, it does not take up storage space. Wear a resistance band around your ankle.
Lie on your right side with your legs straight. Lift your left leg up and down, keeping your left leg parallel to your right. Switch to the opposite side and repeat.
This exercise will tighten the core and lower body.
All Fours
This is another great workout that tones the core and lower body.
Place your hands and knees flat on the floor. Keep your back straight and lift one leg up as if you’re stomping the ceiling.
Bicep Curl
Our final pick is your traditional curl with a 5-10 lb. dumbbell. Stand with your back straight and pull your forearm in toward you and away from your body.
Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.
The National Institute of Health suggests that weight training exercises performed intermittently will lessen the risk of cardiovascular disease.
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