It's a great time of year to clear the clutter in our homes and offices. Many items can be useful to others, especially now. Here is a guide with some helpful hints for recirculating and donating:
~ Most organizations can only use certain types of items - call or check the agency's website for a donation wish list.
~ Inquire as to whether an agency can pick up items or if they need to be dropped off at a certain location.
~ Ask for a receipt to claim a tax deduction.
Where to donate:
Big Brothers/Big Sisters http://www.bbbsmb.org/ 800-483-5503
Boomerangs http://www.aac.org/ 617-524-5120
Brookline Senior Center - gift cart items, used cell phones and iPods 617-730-2770
Coalition for the Homeless http://www.mahomeless.org/ 781-595-7570 x13
DVDs for Vets http://www.dvds4vets.org/
Goodwill/Morgan Memorial http://www.goodwillmass.org/ 617-445-1010
Got Books? http://www.gotbooks.com/ 978-327-7600
Rosie's Place http://www.rosies.org/ 617-442-9322
Salvation Army http://www.salvationarmyusa.org/ 800-958-7825
Second Step http://www.thesecondstep.org/ 617-965-3999
Solutions at Work http://www.solutionsatwork.org/ 617-576-0039
And another great resource for both giving and receiving: http://www.freecycle.org/
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
DO YOU KNOW ANY STRESSED OUT OFFICE WORKERS? TREAT THEM TO MASSAGE GIFT CERTIFICATES FOR ADMINISTRATIVE PROFESSIONALS DAY (Wed. April 22nd)! Call me today to place your order - 617-738-8222
Monday, April 20, 2009
Saturday, April 4, 2009
LET'S SLEEP ON IT!
Many people are having sleeping problems these days -- are you one of them?
The vicious cycle of stress and sleeplessness is very hard on our physical, mental, and emotional well-being. When we don't get enough sleep, we are more likely to be forgetful, less productive, accident prone, short-tempered, and susceptible to illness. We all need to take special care of ourselves during periods of uncertainty. Here are some things that can encourage sound sleep, no matter what may be going on around us, so we can wake up with the energy to cope with whatever comes our way:
1. Although it may feel relaxing, drinking alcohol in the evening actually disrupts sleep cycles throughout the night. And, of course, caffeinated drinks are not sleep-inducing.
2. Vigorous exercise in the evening can boost energy levels, interfering with sleep. Try doing a session earlier in the day. Gentle stretching or yoga may help with relaxation before bed.
3. It is best to refrain from TV watching and computer use before bedtime, as the hormones released in response to the bright lights can keep you awake for hours afterwards.
4. Restful sleep requires a dark, quiet, and comfortable environment. Do what you can to make your bedroom feel like a safe and serene oasis.
5. Discuss with your doctor ongoing sleep concerns as well as any medications (including non-prescription) that you are taking. Sleep difficulties may be a symptom or cause of serious health problems. Some drugs and supplements interfere with sleep, and long-term use of over the counter sleep medications can produce significant side effects and medical issues.
6. Winding down for at least one half hour before bed with lowered activity in dim light can help. Also, brief periods of relaxation during your busy day will promote better rest at night.
DO YOU NEED MORE INFORMATION ABOUT HOW TO RELAX AND SLEEP BETTER? MY EASY RELAXING MEDITATION CD CAN HELP!
You can learn to meditate with the step-by-step instructions on this CD and begin to experience relaxation in just a few minutes. Not connected to any specific spiritual tradition - 65 minutes, $20.00 per CD includes shipping and tax. ($25.00 outside of US)
Please send your name, address, city, state, zip code, phone number, email, number of CD's requested, and check or money order to: Joan Hardy, 48 Dwight St. Suite 6, Brookline, MA 02446. Refunds available only for items that arrived in damaged condition. Please call me at 617-738-8222 with any questions.
The vicious cycle of stress and sleeplessness is very hard on our physical, mental, and emotional well-being. When we don't get enough sleep, we are more likely to be forgetful, less productive, accident prone, short-tempered, and susceptible to illness. We all need to take special care of ourselves during periods of uncertainty. Here are some things that can encourage sound sleep, no matter what may be going on around us, so we can wake up with the energy to cope with whatever comes our way:
1. Although it may feel relaxing, drinking alcohol in the evening actually disrupts sleep cycles throughout the night. And, of course, caffeinated drinks are not sleep-inducing.
2. Vigorous exercise in the evening can boost energy levels, interfering with sleep. Try doing a session earlier in the day. Gentle stretching or yoga may help with relaxation before bed.
3. It is best to refrain from TV watching and computer use before bedtime, as the hormones released in response to the bright lights can keep you awake for hours afterwards.
4. Restful sleep requires a dark, quiet, and comfortable environment. Do what you can to make your bedroom feel like a safe and serene oasis.
5. Discuss with your doctor ongoing sleep concerns as well as any medications (including non-prescription) that you are taking. Sleep difficulties may be a symptom or cause of serious health problems. Some drugs and supplements interfere with sleep, and long-term use of over the counter sleep medications can produce significant side effects and medical issues.
6. Winding down for at least one half hour before bed with lowered activity in dim light can help. Also, brief periods of relaxation during your busy day will promote better rest at night.
DO YOU NEED MORE INFORMATION ABOUT HOW TO RELAX AND SLEEP BETTER? MY EASY RELAXING MEDITATION CD CAN HELP!
You can learn to meditate with the step-by-step instructions on this CD and begin to experience relaxation in just a few minutes. Not connected to any specific spiritual tradition - 65 minutes, $20.00 per CD includes shipping and tax. ($25.00 outside of US)
Please send your name, address, city, state, zip code, phone number, email, number of CD's requested, and check or money order to: Joan Hardy, 48 Dwight St. Suite 6, Brookline, MA 02446. Refunds available only for items that arrived in damaged condition. Please call me at 617-738-8222 with any questions.
Saturday, March 14, 2009
6 TIPS FOR STAYING HEALTHY IN COLD AND FLU SEASON
1. Keep moving! Research shows that people who are more active get fewer colds - besides working out, activities such as walking, housework, and yard work are all helpful.
2. Keep it clean! Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly with warm water and soap for as long as it takes to sing "Happy Birthday" twice.
Contact lens wearers need to be especially diligent with hand-washing - the eyes are another route for viruses to enter your body.
If you share a telephone with others, clean it at least once a week.
3. Stay calm! Stress raises cortisol, a hormone that depletes the immune system.
4. Drink up! Drinking lots of water helps flush out potential infectious substances from your body and aids recovery if you do get sick.
5. Healthy eating! Especially fruits and veggies which contain nutrients that stave off illness.
Avoid eating at your desk - it's loaded with germs!
6. Take a snooze! Sleep is your body's strongest repair mechanism, so be sure to get enough rest.
Sources: University of South Carolina, Ohio State University Medical Center
2. Keep it clean! Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly with warm water and soap for as long as it takes to sing "Happy Birthday" twice.
Contact lens wearers need to be especially diligent with hand-washing - the eyes are another route for viruses to enter your body.
If you share a telephone with others, clean it at least once a week.
3. Stay calm! Stress raises cortisol, a hormone that depletes the immune system.
4. Drink up! Drinking lots of water helps flush out potential infectious substances from your body and aids recovery if you do get sick.
5. Healthy eating! Especially fruits and veggies which contain nutrients that stave off illness.
Avoid eating at your desk - it's loaded with germs!
6. Take a snooze! Sleep is your body's strongest repair mechanism, so be sure to get enough rest.
Sources: University of South Carolina, Ohio State University Medical Center
Sunday, March 1, 2009
KEEPING UP THE NEW YEAR HIGH (Part II)
Guest Author: Ann Seelye, Health and Wellness Specialist
If you made thoughtful New Year's resolutions and it's now March and you feel yourself starting to slide, the good news is that it doesn't need to happen.
Something can be learned from the New Year. It's that time when anything seems possible. You are focused clearly on what you want. And you know what? That's the most important piece of all! Because I, or any good fitness professional, can help you with the details, but the "why you want to do it" has to come from you and a strong, initial commitment.
The definition of commitment that I like is this: "The ability to carry through with a worthy decision, even when the emotion or excitement of making that decision has passed." Think about it. It's easy to get excited about starting a fitness program and dream about all the possibilities, but eventually the alarm clock goes off and you have to put on your workout shoes and do it.
What will get you out of bed instead of hitting the snooze button? Can you see it? Create a vision of where you want your health and fitness to be at the end of 2009 . . . Or even this summer! If you begin to lament about working out, conjure up that vision. Because otherwise, what's the point? If you have no vision, exercise is just exercise. Having that clarity of vision is important. How do you want to feel? What do you want to look like? (And be reasonable given your genetics, body type, age, and what's possible in one year).
Secondly, set SMART goals. You can reset or clarify your goals right now if you want or need to. Resolutions and goals can be set any time. SMART goals are goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Reasonable or Relevant, and Time-based. New Year's resolutions tend to be for a whole year which is too long a time frame. By breaking it down into much smaller steps, either weekly or monthly or for a 3 month period, which you can measure and achieve, you are much more likely to experience success. This leads to higher self-esteem and a greater chance that you'll keep going for the next week or month and be one of those who continue for 6 months or more in keeping your resolutions. An example of a SMART goal is: "My intention is to do aerobic exercise 3 times a week for 35 minutes for one month." Then keep a log or write on your calendar what you do so you are measuring.
Try each month to come up with one new habit to make (or break) that takes you closer to your vision. Or come up with one more small step you can take. Keeping up the New Year high requires a why and SMART goal setting to fulfill your vision. What's YOUR vision?
For further ideas on this topic or any exercise related topics Ann Seelye is available for consultation. Ann is a freelance health and fitness writer and speaker in the Boston area. She gives talks at companies, health clubs, and via teleclassses. She is certified as a Personal Trainer, Alexander Teacher, Master Fitness by Phone(R) Coach, as well as an Intuitive Eating Coach. Ann sees clients at Healthworks Fitness Centers, in a studio in Brookline and via telephone coaching and classes. She can be reached at 617-739-4704 or fitbyphone@aol.com.
If you made thoughtful New Year's resolutions and it's now March and you feel yourself starting to slide, the good news is that it doesn't need to happen.
Something can be learned from the New Year. It's that time when anything seems possible. You are focused clearly on what you want. And you know what? That's the most important piece of all! Because I, or any good fitness professional, can help you with the details, but the "why you want to do it" has to come from you and a strong, initial commitment.
The definition of commitment that I like is this: "The ability to carry through with a worthy decision, even when the emotion or excitement of making that decision has passed." Think about it. It's easy to get excited about starting a fitness program and dream about all the possibilities, but eventually the alarm clock goes off and you have to put on your workout shoes and do it.
What will get you out of bed instead of hitting the snooze button? Can you see it? Create a vision of where you want your health and fitness to be at the end of 2009 . . . Or even this summer! If you begin to lament about working out, conjure up that vision. Because otherwise, what's the point? If you have no vision, exercise is just exercise. Having that clarity of vision is important. How do you want to feel? What do you want to look like? (And be reasonable given your genetics, body type, age, and what's possible in one year).
Secondly, set SMART goals. You can reset or clarify your goals right now if you want or need to. Resolutions and goals can be set any time. SMART goals are goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Reasonable or Relevant, and Time-based. New Year's resolutions tend to be for a whole year which is too long a time frame. By breaking it down into much smaller steps, either weekly or monthly or for a 3 month period, which you can measure and achieve, you are much more likely to experience success. This leads to higher self-esteem and a greater chance that you'll keep going for the next week or month and be one of those who continue for 6 months or more in keeping your resolutions. An example of a SMART goal is: "My intention is to do aerobic exercise 3 times a week for 35 minutes for one month." Then keep a log or write on your calendar what you do so you are measuring.
Try each month to come up with one new habit to make (or break) that takes you closer to your vision. Or come up with one more small step you can take. Keeping up the New Year high requires a why and SMART goal setting to fulfill your vision. What's YOUR vision?
For further ideas on this topic or any exercise related topics Ann Seelye is available for consultation. Ann is a freelance health and fitness writer and speaker in the Boston area. She gives talks at companies, health clubs, and via teleclassses. She is certified as a Personal Trainer, Alexander Teacher, Master Fitness by Phone(R) Coach, as well as an Intuitive Eating Coach. Ann sees clients at Healthworks Fitness Centers, in a studio in Brookline and via telephone coaching and classes. She can be reached at 617-739-4704 or fitbyphone@aol.com.
Sunday, February 8, 2009
KEEPING UP THE NEW YEAR HIGH (Part I)
Guest Author: Ann Seelye, Health and Wellness Specialist
It usually starts around February, sometimes as late as March. Has it started for you yet? "I can't exercise today because I have to go into the office early . . . my son has a dentist appointment . . . it's too dark outside . . . " Bottom line, the New Year euphoria wears off. Did you make New Year's resolutions related to exercise, eating, getting healthier and losing weight? Have you set the same resolutions other years?
What is the problem with not meeting your resolutions? Maybe there's no problem, but if your resolution was meaningful to you, it's probably something you really want to do; something you believe will improve your quality of life. For example, if you're facing a health challenge, a new, more active lifestyle might be of great benefit to you. Often people feel hopeless about their ability to make meaningful changes and their self-esteem goes down. They feel depressed and this affects their quality of life, their relationships, and their work.
About 40-45% of people in the United States make New Year's resolutions and of that group about 40% make resolutions to get more exercise. Some research has shown that after the first week 75% are still maintaining their resolution, after two weeks 71%, after two months 64% and after six months 46%. So while the number drops off quite a bit, that's still 46% of those maintaining the new behaviors they committed to. But what about the other 54% who didn't keep their resolutions?
Some of the reasons people don't keep their resolutions are they set unrealistic goals, such as, "I'm going to exercise 6 days a week all year." They set too many goals: "I'm going to get organized, lose 50 pounds and eat healthily this year." They make their goals unclear, like "I'm going to get more fit."
Some people think it's the thing to do New Year's Eve so they make resolutions off the top of their head without any real thought behind it or intention to commit. Also, some people state their resolutions in absolutes such as, "I'm never going to eat cookies again. I'm always going to exercise on Monday, Wednesday and Friday." So some of the problem is in the goal setting itself. Do you recognize any of these tendencies in your resolutions?
However, if you made thoughtful resolutions and you feel yourself starting to slide, the good news is that it doesn't have to happen . . . (Learn more in Part II next month!)
For further ideas on this topic or any exercise related topics Ann Seelye is available for consultation. Ann Richmond Seelye is a freelance health and fitness writer and speaker in the Boston, Massachusetts area. She gives talks at companies, health clubs and via teleclasses. She is certified as a Personal Trainer, Alexander Teacher, Master Fitness By Phone(R) Coach, as well as an Intuitive Eating Coach. Ann sees clients at Healthworks Fitness Centers for Women, in a studio in Brookline and via telephone coaching and classes. She can be reached at 617-739-4704 or fitbyphone@aol.com.
It usually starts around February, sometimes as late as March. Has it started for you yet? "I can't exercise today because I have to go into the office early . . . my son has a dentist appointment . . . it's too dark outside . . . " Bottom line, the New Year euphoria wears off. Did you make New Year's resolutions related to exercise, eating, getting healthier and losing weight? Have you set the same resolutions other years?
What is the problem with not meeting your resolutions? Maybe there's no problem, but if your resolution was meaningful to you, it's probably something you really want to do; something you believe will improve your quality of life. For example, if you're facing a health challenge, a new, more active lifestyle might be of great benefit to you. Often people feel hopeless about their ability to make meaningful changes and their self-esteem goes down. They feel depressed and this affects their quality of life, their relationships, and their work.
About 40-45% of people in the United States make New Year's resolutions and of that group about 40% make resolutions to get more exercise. Some research has shown that after the first week 75% are still maintaining their resolution, after two weeks 71%, after two months 64% and after six months 46%. So while the number drops off quite a bit, that's still 46% of those maintaining the new behaviors they committed to. But what about the other 54% who didn't keep their resolutions?
Some of the reasons people don't keep their resolutions are they set unrealistic goals, such as, "I'm going to exercise 6 days a week all year." They set too many goals: "I'm going to get organized, lose 50 pounds and eat healthily this year." They make their goals unclear, like "I'm going to get more fit."
Some people think it's the thing to do New Year's Eve so they make resolutions off the top of their head without any real thought behind it or intention to commit. Also, some people state their resolutions in absolutes such as, "I'm never going to eat cookies again. I'm always going to exercise on Monday, Wednesday and Friday." So some of the problem is in the goal setting itself. Do you recognize any of these tendencies in your resolutions?
However, if you made thoughtful resolutions and you feel yourself starting to slide, the good news is that it doesn't have to happen . . . (Learn more in Part II next month!)
For further ideas on this topic or any exercise related topics Ann Seelye is available for consultation. Ann Richmond Seelye is a freelance health and fitness writer and speaker in the Boston, Massachusetts area. She gives talks at companies, health clubs and via teleclasses. She is certified as a Personal Trainer, Alexander Teacher, Master Fitness By Phone(R) Coach, as well as an Intuitive Eating Coach. Ann sees clients at Healthworks Fitness Centers for Women, in a studio in Brookline and via telephone coaching and classes. She can be reached at 617-739-4704 or fitbyphone@aol.com.
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
ARE YOU SICK OF BEING SICK?
You can use a quick, easy self-care technique called Immunics that I have found to be very effective in combating flu, colds, viruses, and other illnesses.
"Immunics is a portable, instantaneous weapon that everyone can carry around with them and everyone can do it . . . it kills viruses in around five minutes, and you can kill them in your car while you're driving to work. People pick it up in about 15 minutes . . . A minimal ability is the ability to stop flu from happening to you." - Bayard Barnes, Immunics founder
You can heal yourself! Learn more at www.immunics.org.
"Immunics is a portable, instantaneous weapon that everyone can carry around with them and everyone can do it . . . it kills viruses in around five minutes, and you can kill them in your car while you're driving to work. People pick it up in about 15 minutes . . . A minimal ability is the ability to stop flu from happening to you." - Bayard Barnes, Immunics founder
You can heal yourself! Learn more at www.immunics.org.
Friday, January 9, 2009
PLEASE FACE MONEY CONFLICTS IN YOUR HOME OR BUSINESS BEFOREHAND! (Part II)
Guest Author: Shel Miller Ph.D.
It is a necessary loss to take care to plan responsibly and talk easily and openly about how to manage expenditures before crunch time. Partnership means strategically fashioning a fair, balanced, mutually reciprocal teamwork - a team wherein you respectfully support one another.
Certainly it is worth reviewing differing attitudes about earning, spending, and budgeting money. Ask each other about conscious expectations and about role models. Hopefully partners will even access some of the heretofore hidden images from the past, stored in their brains.
Variations in how partners approach the size of their diamond engagement ring and wedding reception or the decor of your offices reflect the differing messages about money that each received from parents and extended family. Some lessons were intentionally transmitted. Other teachings were by example, including the unintended lessons.
For example, was money meant to be spent or saved, used freely for luxuries or just necessities, to be hidden or spent conspicuously? There may have been confusion between the resources of love and money. For money is often the only "nurturing" that some (e.g. workaholic) parents are able to give their spouse or children.
Feeling inferior and competitive with friends of higher socioeconomic status may cause conflict with a spouse or business partner taught to be prudent with resources. How would you feel about pressure to buy the marital or company car that represents an announcement of status? These dynamics may need to be teased out and negotiated with the assistance of a coach in addition to your accountant and attorney.
Wouldn't it be easier to explore these possibilities collaboratively while first falling in love, choosing your co-executive, or developing your business and marketing plans?
Dr. Shel J. Miller is an Executive, Family and Divorce coach. As the Keep-It-Together Expert, his mission is to lift spirits by restoring hope and peace in relationships that are struggling. He does this through Family Event Coaching and working as a Child Specialist with Collaborative Attorneys and a Parent Coordinator post litigation. His website is http://www.shelmiller.com/ and he may be reached at 617-731-9174 or ShelMiller@rcn.com.
NOW AVAILABLE: PARKING SPACES (SUBCOMPACT OR SMALLER) FOR RENT ON NAPLES RD., BROOKLINE. CALL SHEL AT THE NUMBER ABOVE FOR MORE INFORMATION.
It is a necessary loss to take care to plan responsibly and talk easily and openly about how to manage expenditures before crunch time. Partnership means strategically fashioning a fair, balanced, mutually reciprocal teamwork - a team wherein you respectfully support one another.
Certainly it is worth reviewing differing attitudes about earning, spending, and budgeting money. Ask each other about conscious expectations and about role models. Hopefully partners will even access some of the heretofore hidden images from the past, stored in their brains.
Variations in how partners approach the size of their diamond engagement ring and wedding reception or the decor of your offices reflect the differing messages about money that each received from parents and extended family. Some lessons were intentionally transmitted. Other teachings were by example, including the unintended lessons.
For example, was money meant to be spent or saved, used freely for luxuries or just necessities, to be hidden or spent conspicuously? There may have been confusion between the resources of love and money. For money is often the only "nurturing" that some (e.g. workaholic) parents are able to give their spouse or children.
Feeling inferior and competitive with friends of higher socioeconomic status may cause conflict with a spouse or business partner taught to be prudent with resources. How would you feel about pressure to buy the marital or company car that represents an announcement of status? These dynamics may need to be teased out and negotiated with the assistance of a coach in addition to your accountant and attorney.
Wouldn't it be easier to explore these possibilities collaboratively while first falling in love, choosing your co-executive, or developing your business and marketing plans?
Dr. Shel J. Miller is an Executive, Family and Divorce coach. As the Keep-It-Together Expert, his mission is to lift spirits by restoring hope and peace in relationships that are struggling. He does this through Family Event Coaching and working as a Child Specialist with Collaborative Attorneys and a Parent Coordinator post litigation. His website is http://www.shelmiller.com/ and he may be reached at 617-731-9174 or ShelMiller@rcn.com.
NOW AVAILABLE: PARKING SPACES (SUBCOMPACT OR SMALLER) FOR RENT ON NAPLES RD., BROOKLINE. CALL SHEL AT THE NUMBER ABOVE FOR MORE INFORMATION.
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