It was fun to attend and support the Seventh Annual “Grievewell Kite Festival” at Lilly Park. The event was mainly sponsored by Grievewell, a non-profit organization in Washtenaw County MI, among other organizations. This was a precious time where seniors became kids again and families made their own kites and put them to fly.  Congratulations to the organizers and the “kite professionals” that showed their skills with awesome kite designs.

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Step Into Self-Care with Seniors Helping Seniors® 

The concept of self-care has become increasingly popular over the past few years, and for good reason. Committing to a self-care routine boosts mental and physical health, reduces stress, increases productivity, improves relationships, and benefits overall wellbeing. Since July 24^th marks International Self-Care Day, let’s dive into a few of the ways Seniors Helping Seniors® clients can incorporate this beneficial practice into everyday life.

What is Self-Care?

The definition of self-care is straightforward: taking deliberate actions to improve overall health and happiness. In the case of our clients, self-care contributes to extended independence as well.

One thing that self-care certainly is not is selfish. Prioritizing health and wellbeing are essential to leading a full, active, and well-balanced life, so there’s no need to feel guilty for taking a little “me time!”

4 Ways to Practice Self-Care

Diving into a self-care routine doesn’t have to be difficult; small lifestyle changes often have significant benefits. Start by incorporating a few of the Seniors Helping Seniors® suggestions below:

Eat Well and Exercise Regularly

Maintaining a healthy diet and exercise routine is a great first step in practicing self-care. A well-nourished and strong body is the foundation of wellbeing. Eating a well-balanced diet boosts immunity, lowers the risk of many diseases, and provides the fuel to take on each day. Combined with daily physical activity, which benefits both the body and mind, this practice offers a foundation for improved overall health.

Practice Gratitude

Taking time to evaluate and be thankful for what one has is a wonderful exercise for gaining mental clarity. Practicing gratitude, whether through mediation or journaling, helps uncover all the good things in life and that proves essential in maintaining a positive outlook.

Try Something New

Studies show that when seniors pick up a new hobby it improves both body and mind. Continually learning new things may also help to reduce the risk of dementia.

Seniors Helping Seniors® caregivers love seeing our clients stepping outside of their comfort zone. Not to mention, hobbies keep those we serve active and engaged! Our caregivers are happy to help our clients explore their interests and make a great partner in trying new activities.

Speak With a Professional

Mental health is a pillar of self-care and seeking out professional assistance can provide perspective on one’s thoughts and feelings while encouraging a more positive mindset. These services not only help to strengthen relationships with others, but also with us.

Self-care is not a one-time practice, but a continuing journey. Everyone is different and building the right self-care routine can take time. Be patient and lean on a Seniors Helping Seniors® caregiver along the way. Our team is here to support all the needs of the seniors we serve and though self-care sounds like a solo endeavor, it can be even more effective with a kind, trustworthy friend along for the ride.

Ingredients

• ½ cup softened butter
• 1 ¼ cups sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 tsp. vanilla extract
• 2 cups flour
• ½ tsp. salt
• 2 tsp. baking powder
• ½ cup milk
• 2 cups blueberries washed and drained.
• 3 tsp. sugar

Directions 

1. Preheat oven to 375°.
2. 2. Cream together butter and 1 ¼ cups sugar.
3. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating after each one until well incorporated. Add vanilla and mix.
4. Sift together flour, salt, and baking powder. Add creamed mixture, alternating with the milk.
5. Crush ½ cup of blueberries with a fork and mix into batter. Fold in the remaining whole berries.
6. Line a standard 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners and fill each mold with batter. Sprinkle 3 teaspoons of sugar over the top of the muffins and bake at 375° for approximately 30 – 35 minutes.
7. Remove muffins from tin and let cool for at least 30 minutes.