tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33716252520369952862024-02-06T19:13:22.987-08:00Better Quality of LifeKaja for Better Quality of Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17969799162665247055noreply@blogger.comBlogger79125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3371625252036995286.post-18507890375063569132017-04-12T08:38:00.002-07:002017-04-13T02:09:05.055-07:00Coping With Life's Constant Changes<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue;">Greetings Dear Reader!</span> </span><span style="color: blue; font-size: x-large;"><strong>😃</strong></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Thanks for dropping by. We all know change is constant in life. While change can be extremely uncomfortable; especially, when it is unexpected or not orchestrated by us; we also know that stagnation is much worse. At least with change we have the opportunity to grow, learn, and evolve in some way. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">I highly believe that life is for <em>living</em> (participating), <em>loving</em> (connecting), <em>learning</em> (growing and evolving), and <em>sharing</em> (getting and giving feedback, and taking in and imparting what we've learned). And change is constantly occurring as we do these things. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Constant change is inevitable as evidenced by improvements in technology (although I still have a Samsung III); marriages and divorces; births and deaths; graduations; companies downsizing or growing; businesses opening or closing; natural disasters or land development; and...well, you get the idea. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><em>Fortunately, change provides opportunities to get better at living, loving, learning, sharing.</em></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Already your life has changed in many ways, and it will continue to change until you take your last breath. Therefore, it is wise to be patient with yourself as you find ways to cope while attending this humongous and dynamic school called life. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">Below Are Ways To Cope With Change</span> </strong><em>(be sure to click on the links for more information)</em><strong>:</strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>1) Be appreciative.</strong> </span> If the change is something you wanted, give thanks, express gratitude, and enjoy it. If the change is uncomfortable, be appreciative about the fact that change is temporary.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Perspectives-Peaceful-Living-Serene-Content/dp/1519331347">https://www.amazon.com/Perspectives-Peaceful-Living-Serene-Content/dp/1519331347</a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">2) Practice patience.</span></strong> As stated above, <em>change is temporary</em>. Still, it is easy to feel frantic and uncomfortable about it. When you choose, or have been forced, to make a change, be patient with getting through the newness of the situation. Think about a time in your life when you got a new job, or moved to another state or a different neighborhood. Eventually you went from making a change to having chang<em><strong><u>ed</u></strong></em>. Each change comes with a before, during, and after. But in each phase all you have is the present moment so make an effort to be patient with the process. </span><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Patience-Acquire-This-Powerful-Virtue-ebook/dp/B01EMOALK8/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8">https://www.amazon.com/Patience-Acquire-This-Powerful-Virtue-ebook/dp/B01EMOALK8/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8</a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">3) Choose faith over fear.</span> </strong>Have faith in your ability to find solutions to changes that are challenging. Look for ways to change a bad situation, relationship, job situation, or relationship into a more positive one. Fear paralyzes us from finding solutions or being able to calm our nerves. I don't know anyone who doesn't feel fear from time to time, but we must make the effort to replace thoughts of fear, which paralyzes us from finding solutions, with thoughts of faith that we can cope and will get through whatever challenging change we are faced with.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Faith-Breaking-Through-Faced-Challenges-ebook/dp/B01D3I7Z9O/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8">https://www.amazon.com/Faith-Breaking-Through-Faced-Challenges-ebook/dp/B01D3I7Z9O/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8</a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Share this post with a friend and feel free to leave a comment. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Best wishes for your optimal health and wellness!</span><br />
<em><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;"><strong>Kaja Green-Tovar</strong></span></em><br />
<br />
<br />Kaja for Better Quality of Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17969799162665247055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3371625252036995286.post-14675427928482432102017-04-07T05:53:00.000-07:002017-04-07T05:53:01.196-07:00Making Life Changes After FortyGreetings Dear Reader!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
During April 2017, I will be writing here about making life changes in your life after forty. Next month I'm turning forty-two, and you know what? I don't mind so it really doesn't matter!At one point I dreaded telling my age, but these days <span style="color: blue;">instead of caring about how many years old I am, I care about the life in my years. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Whether you are twenty-two, forty-two, or sixty-two, or beyond, <span style="color: blue;">as an adult you get to CHOOSE, DECIDE what you focus on and DETERMINE what actions you take.</span>Unless you are behind bars, you are free to spend your minutes, hours, days the way you want. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Recently, a life change I made is returning to university for my master's degree. I started towards a master's degree in my late thirties, but had to put it off for personal reasons. Fortunately, I felt compelled to restart my journey to earning a master's degree and I got accepted into the University of Wisconsin where I am already signed up for classes for the Fall 2017 semester. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: blue;">If you are thinking about returning to school or starting some endeavor</span> (fitness competitions, a business, a family, a new relationship, joining a community sports team, taking martial arts classes, learning a new language, how to play an instrument, or whatever else) <span style="color: blue;">after age forty, please do yourself a huge favor and go for it!</span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: blue;">Remove mental limits from yourself.</span> You may feel nervous, apprehensive, or little anxious when you make a change in your life, but be brave and do it anyway. As soon as you take that first step, that initial action, applaud yourself, pat yourself on the back, for having courage to improve your quality of life or take on a new endeavor.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
As I return to university, I will be sure to get involved in some worthwhile university function. While I was getting my undergraduate degree, I was involved in the Health Promotion Club on campus and Toastmasters International in the community. Currently, I am involved in a wonderful Toastmasters club again and I will look for an opportunity to be involved with campus life as well even though I also work outside the home and write. I share this to encourage you to get out there and make the changes you fantasize about. <span style="color: blue;">Dreams can only become a reality through persistent action while being patient with your progress.</span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Your life is just that--<em>YOURS</em>. Unless you are expected to die tomorrow, you might as well pursue your goals as if you will live to one-hundred, while incorporating love in your life as if you just might die at any moment.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I hope this post encourages you to make some positive life changes regardless of being forty-plus-years-old. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Here's a book about a group of women of different ages and races who made life changes when facing relationship woes: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Hooray-He-Cheated-K-G-T-ebook/dp/B01B1PDVJY/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">https://www.amazon.com/Hooray-He-Cheated-K-G-T-ebook/dp/B01B1PDVJY/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8</span></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Best wishes for your optimal health and wellness!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong><em><span style="color: blue;">Kaja Green-Tovar :-)</span></em></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
Kaja for Better Quality of Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17969799162665247055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3371625252036995286.post-56046281553433912722017-03-22T09:24:00.004-07:002017-03-22T09:24:48.886-07:00Motivating Others Is Beneficial!Greetings Dear Reader! <br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
While keeping with the theme of blogging about motivation for March 2017, I want to share that sometimes you will not feel motivated to get to the gym, or exercise at home or park, or wherever you perform your workout. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Yes, there will be a day or two, or six out of the year when you think: "I don't want to workout even though this is a scheduled workout day."</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
While it's okay to ONCE IN A WHILE, break from your fitness routine, you want to adhere to your schedule as much as possible. Recently, when I felt this way, I thought of all the people I say motivational words to regarding making health and wellness part of their lifestyle. Fortunately, remembering my own words of motivation helped me get to get a workout in anyway. This is because...<strong><span style="color: blue;"><em>motivating others is motivation for the motivator!</em></span></strong> Read the highlighted text again...<em>slowly</em>. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Aside from fitness motivation, think of an adult imploring a teenager to not text and drive. When that same adult is at a red light and hears an alert for an incoming text message, he or she, remembering what they told the teen, will be more likely to not attempting reading the text or replying. Instead, they will follow the motivational advice/encouragement they gave the teen driver. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The reason motivating others is motivation for the motivator is because the motivational thoughts, words, writing shared has to come from within. Thankfully, having motivational inner thoughts and inner dialogue provides a well for us to draw from. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The main take away from this post is that by motivating others, you, too, are motivated as you believe in the advice and encouraging words you share with others. Now do yourself a huge favor and find someone who needs motivation and is open to receiving it. </div>
<br />
Best wishes for your --and the person you find to motivate--optimal health and wellness!<br />
<span style="color: blue;"><em><strong>Kaja Green-Tovar 😊</strong></em></span><br />
<br />
<br />
Kaja for Better Quality of Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17969799162665247055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3371625252036995286.post-27675203897120773192017-03-17T21:28:00.001-07:002017-03-18T20:13:09.718-07:00Thanks to Exercise, You Can Handle A Full Schedule!<div style="text-align: justify;">
Greetings Dear Reader! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I worked out for 3 hours at the gym on Wednesday, March 15th. The following day, I only worked out for an hour because it was all my schedule allowed for. On Thursday, I had a very active schedule. After the gym, I got dressed and went to a Toastmasters meeting where I gratefully won the Best Evaluator ribbon. I did my best at Toastmasters without thinking of winning. However, it was fun as always and I'm grateful whenever I'm awarded a ribbon for performing well during my speeches. I know for sure that exercise helps with my ability to be front and center in front of an audience. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
During this week, thanks to exercise, I was able to cope with everything I had going on. Without the flow of endorphins, which results from exercising, I might have felt drained, annoyed, frazzled with all that I had going on. Thankfully, instead of 'woe-is-me' thoughts, I was able to maintain positive and peaceful perspectives. I was able to be RESILIENT! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Thanks to exercise, I was able to be fully present at Toastmasters, get some necessary shopping done afterwards, have coffee with an acquaintance in one city, and then drive to another nearby city--without feeling tired--and have dinner with a close friend from my Air Force days. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Exercise requires ENERGY; and energy in motion, stays in motion! This is why when we exercise we can handle a lot more activity, a fuller schedule, than we can handle without it. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Therefore, dear reader, do yourself the favor of incorporating routine exercising into your schedule. By doing so, you, too, may handle whatever comes your way. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Best wishes for your optimal health and wellness! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong><em><span style="color: blue;">Kaja Green-Tovar </span></em></strong></div>
Kaja for Better Quality of Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17969799162665247055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3371625252036995286.post-87416173205327223512017-03-07T05:47:00.003-08:002019-08-30T16:42:44.279-07:00Boost Your Confidence Greetings Dear Reader! <br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Confidence is a feeling that you can do or accomplish something. When you feel confident, you improve your appearance (posture and facial expression) as we often look the way we feel. This is why someone will look at you and ask, "Wow! What are you feeling so great about?" Or, "Whoa! What's going on? What's bothering you today?" depending on how you are feeling.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
A simple way to feel and look more confident is to take action, to get up and move. You can't slump and feel intimidated when you are busy doing something. This is why exercising on a routine basis is beneficial. The opposite of being active is being sedentary which is a form of being stagnant. When we are stagnant, we feel less hopeful, less trusting of a better outcome, less confident that we will eventually accomplish our goal. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Luckily, at any time and pretty much any place, you can do some form of exercise (walking, stretching, calisthenics...<em>something</em>) to help you feel more upbeat, more capable. More confident!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Once in a while I have a morning when I don't feel like getting up to workout at home or at the gym. Unless, I planned to give my body a rest day from physical activity, I feel uneasy, a little off-centered. Feelings of being uneasy or off-centered are the opposite of feeling confident. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
What about you? How do you feel when you do those ten push-ups or stretch your muscles? What about when you take a bike ride or go for a swim? Don't you feel more upbeat, more aware of being able to do things; hence, more confident? </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Think about the last time you went for a hike, or canoeing, or river-rafting. You probably felt a sense of achievement for having done something. Well, this is the reason to implement routine physical activity (a.k.a. exercise) into your lifestyle. </div>
<br />
Start your exercise regimen and boost your confidence. <br />
<br />
Best wishes for your optimal health and wellness! <br />
<strong><em><span style="color: blue;">Kaja Green-Tovar</span></em></strong>Kaja for Better Quality of Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17969799162665247055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3371625252036995286.post-77817958680955241692017-03-04T06:13:00.004-08:002017-03-04T06:13:40.424-08:00Better Body Image Regardless of Your Age of Size! <strong><span style="color: blue;">Greetings Dear Reader! </span></strong><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Do you want to feel better about your body? We ALL have days (be it rarely or frequently) when we complain about how our body looks, how our clothes fit, or how we want to be thinner or more voluptuous. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Fortunately, you can have a better body image regardless of your age or clothing size! Body image is the way you see yourself and how you think and imagine you look. Luckily, you <em>can</em> boost your body image. You <em>will</em> have a better body image if you do the following: </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong><span style="color: blue;">1) Be grateful for even having a body!</span></strong> Yes, you read that right. Be grateful for having a body because someone somewhere is or has become a quadriplegic and can't do the things you can with your body. Be grateful if you can walk, hold yourself up on crutches, or roll yourself in wheelchair. Basically, be grateful for what your body can do!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong><span style="color: blue;">2) Talk nicely to your body parts!</span> </strong>No, I'm not crazy. At least not certifiably. When I was in my twenties and gained a lot of weight, I used to complained about my body when I looked in the mirror. But once I <em>decided</em> to be grateful for even having a body, I intentionally stood in front of the mirror and said nice things to my body parts. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I would look at my now slender, toned thighs--which were not slender at that time--and say, "I like that my thighs are strong."; "I like how my thighs play a part in me walking and jogging." I would say to my stomach, "I like that you can digest food without a feeding tube." I would look at my stretch marks and say, "Wow! You carried a beautiful baby in there!" I could cover this whole page with all the nice things I said--and still say--to myself but for the sake of efficiency, I won't. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: blue;"><strong>3) Exercise and eat well. </strong></span><span style="color: black;">When you take time to exercise your body and strive to eat well (at least most of the time), you feel better about your body--how it looks and feel. This is because you are doing something to take care of it, to improve it. Taking action feels good and <em>is</em> good, which is why exercising and making healthy food choices boosts your body image. </span></div>
<br />
So, go ahead do all three of the above to get a better body image regardless of your age or current clothing size! <br />
<br />
Have a great rest of your day or evening, and best wishes for your optimal health and wellness! <br />
<strong><span style="color: blue;"><em>~Kaja Green-Tovar~</em></span></strong><br />
Kaja for Better Quality of Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17969799162665247055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3371625252036995286.post-6531126186385880182017-03-01T11:15:00.003-08:002017-03-01T11:18:13.366-08:00For Motivation to Exercise, Find Your 'WHY'<br />
Greetings Dear Reader! <o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
My blog posts for the month of March 2017 will be on health and fitness
motivation. <strong>Getting and staying motivated to exercise will be easier once you determine
WHY it is important to you</strong>. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
As each person is a wonderfully unique individual, it is natural to be
motivated for different reasons. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Your</i>
‘WHY’ for implementing routine exercising into your lifestyle could be about
having a more positive attitude, feeling better, and or not being chronically
stressed. Fortunately, exercise can improve each of these! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
Exercise releases endorphins—the feel-good hormones. Endorphins have a
positive, uplifting impact on your attitude, the way you think and feel. A
positive attitude helps you to have a more nurturing inner dialogue. Having a kind, nurturing inner dialogue is emotionally soothing, which will help you to feel less stressed about the challenging situations or people you have to deal with. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
Exercise, which is often defined as sustained physical activity--<em>be it a short
or long timeframe</em>, is like taking a happy pill, but without the exorbitant cost
and potentially harmful side-effects! Exercise can entail strength training,
running, biking, hiking, swimming, and the like. Exercise also includes less
structured physical activities such as dancing, playing Ultimate Frisbee,
golfing (especially, if you walk rather than drive the course), or going ice-skating
or rollerblading. Oh yes, bowling counts, too! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
So, go ahead and do something physical. Make time for exercising (even ten
minutes, two or three different times throughout the day is beneficial). Do this for yourself and you
will have an improved attitude, more inner peace, and better physical health. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
For more motivation, check out this little gem of fitness motivation at: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/B-C-Book-Health-Fitness-Motivation/dp/1481091409">https://www.amazon.com/B-C-Book-Health-Fitness-Motivation/dp/1481091409</a> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
As always, best wishes for your optimal health and wellness! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong><em><span style="color: blue;">Kaja Green-Tovar<o:p></o:p></span></em></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
Kaja for Better Quality of Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17969799162665247055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3371625252036995286.post-45152849922641960762017-02-11T06:20:00.003-08:002017-02-11T18:49:58.112-08:00Matters Of The HeartGreetings Dear Reader! 💗💗💗 <br />
<br />
Valentine's Day is near <br />
Single or coupled let it be filled with cheer<br />
May your heart be healthy<br />
May it be beat strong and steadily <br />
Again, Valentine's Day is near<br />
Therefore, it's important to read what I've posted here<br />
<br />
Okay, I wrote the above short poem to have a little a fun and to wish your heart well. <br />
<br />
February is a celebratory month for matters of the heart. A good, healthy romance can definitely have a positive impact on one's heart health. If you feel calm and joyful about the romance you're in, and if you feel relaxed and accepted in the arms of your lover, your heart will be less stressed than that of someone who is dealing with a tumultuous relationship. However, as you read on, you'll see that this post is about more than romance when it comes to matters of your heart.<br />
<br />
Aside from a healthy romance, your heart needs aerobic exercise to keep it functioning strongly and at a normal pace. According to the National Institute of Health, the average heart rate for adults is between 60 and 100 beats per minute (and it's between 40 and 60 beats if you are an athlete). For more about heart rates and exercise, visit: <a href="http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/HealthyLiving/PhysicalActivity/FitnessBasics/Target-Heart-Rates_UCM_434341_Article.jsp#.WJ8Z4dEiztQ">http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/HealthyLiving/PhysicalActivity/FitnessBasics/Target-Heart-Rates_UCM_434341_Article.jsp#.WJ8Z4dEiztQ</a><br />
<br />
Emotional anguish and stress can wreak such havoc on the heart that one can have a heart attack. Therefore, it is important to find ways to keep calm, worry less, and feel centered. Ways to mitigate stress include: <br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Engaging in relaxing activities</li>
<li>Laughing</li>
<li>Meditating</li>
<li>Enjoying the outdoors</li>
<li>Spending time with people who uplift rather than bring you down</li>
<li>Abstaining from absorbing shock and awe reports from the news</li>
<li>Getting adequate rest </li>
</ul>
Take time to take care for your heart. Single or coupled this Valentine's Day in 2017 --or in any other year-- be mindful of matters of your heart, and take good care of it. <br />
<br />
May your heart be healthy,<br />
<em><strong><span style="color: red;">Kaja Green-Tovar</span></strong></em><br />
<strong><em><span style="color: red;"></span></em></strong><br />
<strong><em><span style="color: red;"></span></em></strong><br />
<br />Kaja for Better Quality of Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17969799162665247055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3371625252036995286.post-33700212160377291072017-01-16T05:43:00.003-08:002017-01-16T06:04:07.040-08:00Exercising Affects More Than Longevity & Clothing SizeGreetings!<br />
<br />
I recently heard the opinion that people who exercise are trying to prolong life and fit into a certain clothes size. While exercise may help with both of those things, it affects more than that. <br />
<br />
Exercising helps with weight management and that's a good thing because carrying too much weight on your skeletal frame can cause the body preventable aches and pains. Exercising can help shed visceral fat which is great because too much visceral fat can cause illnesses such as diabetes, coronary heart disease, arthritis, stroke, and other preventable illnesses.<br />
<br />
When we exercise we are positively affecting our emotional health because endorphins--the feel good hormones--are released during sustained physical activity. Endorphins help improve a person's mental disposition, making them less cranky and less stressed. Ever see anyone really moody or agitated after they've been exercising? No? Neither have I. <br />
<br />
And fortunately, while it is beneficial to be consistent about exercising (and eating well most of the time), you do not have to be frenzied or fanatic in your efforts. Thirty minutes plus for three or more days per week will improve your health. <br />
<br />
More than longevity and a clothing size, below are some other ways exercise improve your quality of life now: <br />
<br />
<strong>1) Physical and Mental Stamina.</strong> Exercise energizes you. Physically, you gain momentum from exercising. Mentally, you are more prepared for dealing with tasks and communicating with others because the endorphins released <span style="background-color: white;">will help you to have a positive mindset.</span><br />
<br />
<strong>2) Muscular Strength.</strong> Strength/resistance training will help you to be strong enough to do daily activities such as lifting or carrying groceries, rearranging furniture, or being able to catch your balance if you trip so that you catch yourself before falling. <br />
<br />
<strong>3) Self-reliance.</strong> Exercising helps keep the body in good physical condition, enabling one to be self-reliant with endurance and strength performing tasks such as shoveling snow from your walkway or mowing your own lawn. <br />
<br />
<strong>4) Self-esteem.</strong> Regardless of your age or clothing size, exercising is a confidence booster. When you take time out to exercise you are showing that you are worthy of maintaining your health or improving it. <br />
<br />
<strong>5) Social Life.</strong> People enjoy being around others who are taking positive action to have good health. And again, exercise can improve how your feel. And people respond to us based on how we behave and the vibes we exude. When you exercise on a routine basis, you are more likely to come across to others as energetic, capable, self-reliant, and confident. <br />
<br />
So go ahead, take a walk. Go for a jog. Workout at the gym. Exercise will improve your quality of life. <br />
<br />
For more motivation to exercise, visit: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/B-C-Book-Health-Fitness-Motivation/dp/1481091409/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1484574080&sr=1-1&keywords=a+b+c+book+of+health+and+fitness+motivation+and+green-tovar"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">https://www.amazon.com/B-C-Book-Health-Fitness-Motivation/dp/1481091409/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1484574080&sr=1-1&keywords=a+b+c+book+of+health+and+fitness+motivation+and+green-tovar</span></a><br />
<br />
Best wishes for your optimal health and wellness! <br />
Kaja Green-Tovar,<br />
B.S. Health Education and Promotion<br />
<span style="background-color: white;">NASM Certified Personal Trainer</span><br />
<a href="http://www.kajafitness.com/">www.Kajafitness.com</a><br />
Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/kajafitness?lang=en">https://twitter.com/kajafitness?lang=en</a><br />
<br />
<br />Kaja for Better Quality of Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17969799162665247055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3371625252036995286.post-3446865926778909592017-01-12T16:00:00.001-08:002017-01-12T16:00:25.021-08:00Mature Singles and Meeting New PeopleGreetings! <br />
<br />
Thanks for stopping by. Really, I thank you because it has been a long while since I last posted here. <br />
<br />
Publicizing my intention on Facebook to blog more frequently is the reason I did not put off posting yet again. <br />
<br />
This post is about meeting new people when you've been alive for 35 plus years. Many mature singles live in different cities, states, and countries from where they have familial relations due to work and having relocated with a former companion, or for whatever other reason. <br />
<br />
Mature singles meet others at work all the time but when most people are married and have plans with their spouse and kids, it's not easy to find people who are available for doing fun things with during your downtime. Luckily, all is not lost because there are many ways to connect with others who share your single status, downtime-free lifestyle. <br />
<br />
For finding platonic friendships--and possibly romance, if you're open to it--below are several ways to meet people who might like to join you for playing cards, dining out, going hiking, or whatever it is you're interested in:<br />
<br />
<strong>1) Volunteer</strong>. You can volunteer to man stations for sporting events. Some people volunteer at libraries and museums. Organizations like Habitat for Humanity, Volunteer Match, and many others will be grateful for your time and effort. <br />
<br />
<strong>2) Join a club</strong>. Joining a club that offers something you're interested in is a great way to network and enjoy your downtime. Whether it's a writing club, toastmaster's club, running club, or something else, you'll get to socialize outside of the workplace. And for entrepreneurs (including author-entrepreneurs), participating in a club that interests you will expand the number of people who might want your services/products.<br />
<br />
<strong>3) Search Online.</strong> In most cities, the website Meetup.com is available for you to find groups that are interested in a wide variety of topics. It was on Meetup.com that I found out where to go for dance lessons in my local area. Speaking of dancing, I need to return to the classes soon. Fortunately, I have been busy following the above advice I'm dishing out so I have to find time for it in my schedule again. <br />
<br />
I've named 3 easy ways to expand your social life. I know it's not easy putting yourself in new situations with new people, but if you'll remember that the people you are looking for are looking for you, too, will help you relax. <br />
<br />
Take a look at my short YouTube video for inspiration regarding single women and dating: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8yRC8_m_EVg">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8yRC8_m_EVg</a><br />
<br />
My book, Rhonda's Quest for Romance is available here: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/K.G.-T./e/B01B14UT5Y/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1484265215&sr=1-1">https://www.amazon.com/K.G.-T./e/B01B14UT5Y/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1484265215&sr=1-1</a><br />
<br />
Best wishes for each person's optimal health and wellness!<br />
<em><strong>Kaja Green-Tovar</strong></em>Kaja for Better Quality of Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17969799162665247055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3371625252036995286.post-25703734141844924022015-12-07T11:43:00.002-08:002015-12-07T11:43:33.410-08:00Is Online Dating Safe?Greetings! <br />
<br />
You stopped here because you were wondering if online dating is a safe thing to do. I believe online dating is safe, <em>if</em> you take the following precautions:<br />
<br />
<strong>1) </strong>Do not reveal personal or highly sensitive information about yourself. Basically, do not share your physical address, social security number, bank account information, and that kind of thing.<br />
<br />
<strong>2)</strong> <em>Always, always, always</em> meet the person you've been corresponding with in a public location. Preferably in a neutral location where you are not likely to run into the person again if you don't want to. Meeting at your favorite café may not be such a grand idea if you decide you want to avoid seeing your date again; especially, if he or she still wants to see you! <br />
<br />
<strong>3)</strong> Tell someone - <em>a relative, friend, neighbor, or acquaintance</em> - about your plans to meet with someone you've met online. This way someone somewhere knows where you are going and expects you to return. <br />
<br />
By the way, the above precautions applies to anyone of any age and gender!<br />
<br />
In my fiction novel, <strong>Rhonda's Quest For Romance</strong>, you can follow along and laugh (or cringe), depending on what part you're reading, about her dalliances with the different men she meets from an online dating site. <br />
<br />
Rhonda is a 30-year-old librarian with two cats and she is determined to find a lifetime partner in 90 days! <br />
<br />
<strong>Click below for the book:</strong> <br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Rhondas-Quest-Romance-K-G-T-ebook/dp/B01709WC18/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1449516599&sr=1-1&keywords=rhonda%27s+quest+for+romance"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">http://www.amazon.com/Rhondas-Quest-Romance-K-G-T-ebook/dp/B01709WC18/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1449516599&sr=1-1&keywords=rhonda%27s+quest+for+romance</span></a><span style="font-size: x-small;">)</span> <br />
<br />
Whatever you decide to do, be safe and enjoy! :-) <br />
Kaja for Better Quality of Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17969799162665247055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3371625252036995286.post-73851200207498984652015-07-20T10:25:00.000-07:002015-07-20T10:26:11.750-07:00Aging Well Starts Here... Greetings! <br />
<br />
As a healthy living enthusiast and lover of humanity, I want to share with you that aging well starts here:<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><em><span style="font-size: large;">...in YOUR mind. </span></em></strong></div>
<br />
That's right! Aging well starts in your mind when YOU <em>decide</em> to be grateful for the number of years you have been fortunate to accumulate in your life's journey. <br />
<br />
You see, the alternative to advancing up the chronological ladder of age is to <em>not</em> get older. And we <em>know</em> what it means to cease having birthdays.<br />
<br />
Therefore, start the process of aging well by <em>choosing</em> to appreciate being alive. Be grateful for having survived and thrived through different situations over the years. <br />
<br />
Aging is a blessing because with each new day, each new moment, you get the chance to grow spiritually. <br />
<br />
Whether you're 40, 70, or 90, it's fantastic that you're still here evolving and being afforded more time to spend with people and activities you care about. <br />
<br />
Best wishes for our <em>(yours and mine)</em> optimal health and wellness,<br />
<em><strong>Kaja </strong></em>Kaja for Better Quality of Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17969799162665247055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3371625252036995286.post-986664907112153072015-05-12T11:07:00.001-07:002015-05-12T11:07:18.474-07:00A Positive Way to Think About AgingGreetings!<br />
<br />
<em><span style="font-size: x-small;"><u><strong>NOTE</strong></u>: When I refer to good mental health, I am speaking of being absent of mental illnesses such as Alzheimer's or diagnosed mentally debilitating illnesses.</span></em><br />
<br />
If you are an adult with good mental health, you are capable of CHOOSING how well you take care of your mind and body. This is true whether you are eighteen or one-hundred! <br />
<br />
We are all aging chronologically; however, growing older is not synonymous with becoming outdated, useless, purposeless, boring or the other negative stereotype associated with advancing in age. <br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I like to <strong><u>think of aging as evolving</u></strong>. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<strong>Evolving (a.k.a. aging) means growing, maturing, and progressing!</strong> As you long as you are alive, you can choose to evolve by trying new things, and using your maturity to become more efficient at living. <br />
<br />
Look around you sometime. You'll notice people who perpetuate the negative stereotypes of aging by refusing to exercise the bodies they're still using to traverse the earth, or you'll hear people referring to themselves as over-the-hill. When you see the negative aspects of aging, it's usually the result of negative thinking & choices! <br />
<br />
There are numerous senior-aged adults running marathons, biking, hiking, swimming, bowling, dancing, doing yoga, and many other activities. Of course, it's not just about physical activity; spiritual and intellectual pursuits matter, too. Spend time with good people, volunteer, maybe host a game night for a few acquaintances from time to time thus partaking in living because <strong>to evolve positively in life you must participate, not stagnate</strong>. <br />
<br />
Feel free to share additional insights in the comments section below! <br />
<br />
Best wishes for our <em>(yours & mine)</em> optimal health and wellness,<br />
<span style="color: black;"><em><strong>-Kaja</strong></em> </span></div>
Kaja for Better Quality of Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17969799162665247055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3371625252036995286.post-77821776772881152932015-02-25T19:37:00.003-08:002015-02-25T19:37:41.735-08:00For Simple Decisions Try This! Greetings! <br />
<br />
Recently I was trying to make a simple, non-life-changing decision while I was at a breakfast-type restaurant. Basically, I was trying to decide between two delicious looking entrées. Both meals were on the healthy side and equally appealing to my appetite, but the longer I mulled over which want I wanted, the harder it felt to make a choice. Luckily, I great idea flashed in my mind! <br />
<br />
I acted on that idea and <strong>flip a coin</strong>! Guess what flipping the coin did? It provided me with instant relief. By flipping the coin over such a simple decision I was done spending time mulling over the two dishes! <br />
<br />
Of course, keep your wits and understand that I am not suggesting we flip a coin over life-changing matters such as where to attend university, whether or not to get married, or what size vehicle to buy. Big decision require sincere thought and strategies. In another post, I will address the topic of making big decisions.<br />
<br />
Staying in the present, most likely you will agree that for <em>small </em>decisions such as picking out which meal to purchase at a restaurant, which lip gloss or nail polish to wear, or picking out a tie to wear with a dress shirt - we should not expend to much time and energy. <em>Since time and energy affects productivity, it's best to use them wisely</em>. <br />
<br />
The next time you find yourself trying to choose what food dish to order or which DVD movie to watch, <em>reserve your time and energy and <strong>flip a coin</strong>!</em> <br />
<br />
I hope this tip helps you deal with making <em>simple</em> decisions. <br />
<br />
I blog about different topics (big and small) that affect our human experiences, so stayed tuned and take care! <br />
<br />
Best wishes for our <em>(yours and mine)</em> optimal health and wellness, <br />
<strong><em><span style="color: blue;">Kaja Green-Tovar</span></em></strong><br />
<br />
Kaja for Better Quality of Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17969799162665247055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3371625252036995286.post-41681737909797062732015-02-14T08:38:00.003-08:002015-02-14T08:38:49.133-08:00In Matters of the HeartGreetings!<br />
<br />
In matters of the heart, it is important for you to love yourself so you can <em>really</em> love your significant other, family members, friends, or whoever is near and dear to you.<br />
<br />
One way to show love to yourself is to be proactive about dealing with or managing stress. Every person incurs some kind of stress once in while, but if you find ways to deal with it adequately, you can keep from being ongoing (chronic) or from becoming life-threatening (heart-attacks, and other medical conditions). <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuQJHDFC_gzPVMx4MB0QYyP5p9ZdU3fAPh7aLvieJYMJxg-3gw2Mq6RuN2m4o43SUW9fv5knvCt1GI8Spjxu30RyaztbWQOLEWyQNUoqswDbH1gK0ZoUeNnbdmqEMjZ3OeHxN3B14ZAMQd/s1600/Heart2.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuQJHDFC_gzPVMx4MB0QYyP5p9ZdU3fAPh7aLvieJYMJxg-3gw2Mq6RuN2m4o43SUW9fv5knvCt1GI8Spjxu30RyaztbWQOLEWyQNUoqswDbH1gK0ZoUeNnbdmqEMjZ3OeHxN3B14ZAMQd/s1600/Heart2.gif" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Some simple ways to manage stress and keep it from damaging your heart are to:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><strong>Relax</strong></li>
<li><strong>Talk</strong> with a friend to prevent concerns from boiling within </li>
<li><strong>Exercise</strong> - the release of endorphins will help you feel better as you cope with whatever concerns you have</li>
<li><strong>Breathe</strong> deeply and slowly - this will help you to relax</li>
<li><strong>Have Fun </strong>- Do something you enjoy that requires you to be engaged (such as dancing, drawing, journaling, reading, completing word puzzles, strength training, or whatever engages you so that you only think of the activity you are doing)</li>
</ul>
<em>Have a great Heart Day, Week, Month, & Year! </em><br />
<em><strong><span style="color: blue;">Kaja Green-Tovar</span></strong></em>Kaja for Better Quality of Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17969799162665247055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3371625252036995286.post-16014161173988547592014-11-14T06:25:00.002-08:002014-11-14T06:25:23.029-08:00Being Happy Is Beneficial To You AND Others!Greetings Dear Reader!<br />
<br />
It's been a couple of weeks (or more) since my last post. I got busy and had to deal with a very unpredictable schedule. <br />
<br />
Today I'm sharing that being happy benefits you, AND the people around you. <br />
<br />
<strong><u>The benefits of being happy for YOU:</u></strong><br />
<br />
*Feeling happy means you are not feeling overly stressed<br />
<br />
*Happiness allows you to interact kindly with others, and in turn they will most likely act kindly towards you as well<br />
<br />
*Being happy boosts your confidence about life, helping you to feel that life is great - or at least okay<br />
<br />
<strong><u>The benefits of you being happy for the people around you:</u></strong><br />
<br />
*When you're happy, the people around you can relax<br />
<br />
*The people around you can do what they need to do calmly<br />
<br />
*Your happy vibes will make them feel happy, too<br />
<br />
There are plenty more benefits of being happy. Feel free to leave a comment with other benefits of being happy.<br />
<br />
Best wishes for our <em>(yours and mine)</em> optimum quality of life,<br />
<strong><em>Kaja Green-Tovar</em></strong>Kaja for Better Quality of Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17969799162665247055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3371625252036995286.post-6571922287395669842014-09-16T08:00:00.001-07:002014-09-16T08:00:05.286-07:00Daily Planning Allows Us To Use Time EffectivelyGreetings Dear Reader,<br />
<br />
My last post was four days ago on 12 September. So far I have been keeping up with <strong>daily planning</strong>, which is this months topic. <br />
<br />
As I am continuously aware of what my daily schedule involves, I am seeing opportunities to implement time for other goals I wish to accomplish and actions I wish to take. <br />
<br />
Daily planning allows us to effectively assess how we are spending our time. It also lets us know when and where in our schedules we can add or delete activities in order to do all that we want. And yes, sometimes the thing you want to do is get more rest! Whatever is you wish to accomplish, daily planning will help you. <br />
<br />
Best wishes for our <em>(yours and mine)</em> optimal quality of life! <br />
<strong><em>Kaja Green-Tovar</em></strong>Kaja for Better Quality of Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17969799162665247055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3371625252036995286.post-73405314653399092382014-09-12T04:46:00.001-07:002014-09-12T04:46:07.554-07:00Starting Over With Achieving My GoalGreetings Dear Reader,<br />
<br />
On September 2, 2014, I posted about making daily planning a habit. Well, guess what?! I have to start over!!! I did attempt to establish the new goal but did not take actions to implement my goal for a week. Luckily, this is a personal goal and not one that someone tasked me with. <br />
<br />
I am starting over today (12 September 2014 - Friday). My new job requires me to literally be up and down (in the sky and on the ground) but there is no reason I can not accomplish the goal of daily planning. After all, this should be done in advance anyway and tweaked as necessary. <br />
<br />
Therefore, <strong>I am starting over with achieving my goal of making daily planning a habit</strong>! I am going to annotate my schedule for the remainder of this month and make updates each evening and/or morning when necessary. By the way, I am treating myself like I would my best friend (since I really am my #1 best friend) and I am reminding myself that at least I tried and encouraging myself to "try again". <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqMKpn2zM0xN569T9uOSFl77avtyDldmkVpKYv0SaPlk7RPGdQV5XIYhbCRW3g7n2XXEOAjwoe4vQ3KRO5E64QQqNaYdhHpbia9izaHk0ECXeQLfMcLqSbs1l5q9SvbljeMeJnEThhBAUq/s1600/emoticon-smiley-face-6800205.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqMKpn2zM0xN569T9uOSFl77avtyDldmkVpKYv0SaPlk7RPGdQV5XIYhbCRW3g7n2XXEOAjwoe4vQ3KRO5E64QQqNaYdhHpbia9izaHk0ECXeQLfMcLqSbs1l5q9SvbljeMeJnEThhBAUq/s1600/emoticon-smiley-face-6800205.jpg" height="196" width="200" /></a> </div>
Best wishes for each of us to have a productive, high quality existence,<br />
<em><strong>Kaja Green-Tovar</strong></em>Kaja for Better Quality of Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17969799162665247055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3371625252036995286.post-34208043067193805312014-09-02T13:23:00.000-07:002014-09-02T13:25:24.639-07:00Making Daily Planning A Habit Greetings Dear Reader! <br />
<br />
I'm blogging this month about making a daily planning a HABIT. Why? Because this is something I need to improve upon and the best way to make it happen is to gain support and be held accountable by sharing this goal with others. Plus, I'm sure there are other who like to begin or renew the habit of daily planning.<br />
<br />
Why plan the day when anything can happen? Somewhere someone is reading this is asking, "Why plan the day when anything can happen?" or thinking, "Life is much better when the days are 'spontaneous'." <br />
<br />
I get such thinking as I, too, am aware than anything can happen and I am all for spontaneity - <em>but</em>... <strong><span style="color: purple;">daily planning</span><span style="color: purple;"> helps us to prioritize, mitigate the possibility of becoming over-extended, and lets you know ahead of time if you have that extra time for a little 'spontaneity'</span></strong>.<br />
<br />
Better planning would have made today less taxiing or a little more relaxed. You see, this evening I will attend training for my new job and will not be done until the wee hours of the morning. At least knowing in advance when I have to be there <span style="color: purple;"><strong>helps with budgeting time (</strong><em>a.k.a. time-management</em><strong>)</strong></span> for napping before I go in. <br />
<br />
Also daily planning <span style="color: purple;"><strong>keeps us from forgetting what needs to be done and lets us know when there's time to simply do fun stuff</strong>. </span><br />
<br />
Again, the <u><span style="color: purple;">benefits of planning our day</span></u> are listed below:<br />
<span style="color: purple;">**</span>Prioritize to-do list<br />
<span style="color: purple;">**</span>Mitigate the possibility of becoming over-extended<br />
<span style="color: purple;">**</span>Better budgeting of time (better time-management)<br />
<span style="color: purple;">**</span>Helps with remembering what needs to be done<br />
<span style="color: purple;">**</span>Let's us know when extra time will be available to simply do fun stuff<br />
<br />
I hope this month's topic helps you as much as I'm looking for it to help me. <br />
<br />
Best wishes for our <em>(yours and mine)</em> optimal health and wellness,<br />
<em><strong><span style="background-color: white; color: blue;">Kaja Green-Tovar</span></strong></em><br />
<br />Kaja for Better Quality of Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17969799162665247055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3371625252036995286.post-70286510915802281012014-08-17T13:17:00.002-07:002014-08-17T13:17:22.357-07:00Are You 'Mentally' Fit For Work? Greetings Dear Reader!<br />
<br />
Thanks for stopping by to read this post. While we are aware that work is good thing, we need to be mentally fit for working, volunteering, attending training. How, you ask, is this accomplished? Read on for several ways to get mentally fit work:<br />
<br />
First of all, having <strong>the right attitude</strong> will help your mentality for getting something accomplished (i.e. working). The quickest way to be shift your attitude to one of positivity is to be grateful for having work to do or accomplish. Somewhere, someone is wishing they had something to do or accomplish. Be grateful for what being entrusted to learn, volunteer, or do paid work. <br />
<br />
Second, <strong>take care of your mind by getting adequate rest</strong>. When you are well rested, you are able to focus better and be more alert. Most, if not all of us, have experienced the occasional lack of sleep that has left of us feeling groggy and 'not totally there' the following day. Be mentally prepared for work by sleeping and resting well. <br />
<br />
Third, <strong>feed yourself good nutrition</strong>. I like chocolate and most sweets but I refrain from over-indulging because I know that the boost I get from sugary snacks will send me crashing - hard! Therefore be mindful about what you eat. Choose nutritious food that adequately feel the body and leave you feeling good so you can get 'er done! <br />
<br />
I hope the three tips above help you get mentally prepared for work. Feel free to post comments and add suggestions. I know there are many more tips that can be added, and they are most welcome. <br />
<br />
Best wishes for our (yours and mine) optimal quality of life,<br />
<strong><em>Kaja Green-Tovar</em></strong>Kaja for Better Quality of Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17969799162665247055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3371625252036995286.post-85953588613483194622014-08-13T10:21:00.000-07:002014-08-13T10:21:00.569-07:00Work is a GOOD Thing! Greetings Dear Reader! <br />
<br />
Pardon my absence from posting here but I have had a very busy August 2014 so far but I'm once again controlling my schedule after temporarily allowing it to control me for the past couple of weeks.<br />
<br />
For the remainder of August 2014, I will post about <em><strong>working</strong></em> (whether it's paid work, volunteer work, temporary work, or even a hobby; as long as you are "working" at something). <br />
<br />
First of all, let's define work. The online dictionary at <a href="http://www.dictionary.com/">www.dictionary.com</a> defines it as: <br />
<em>1. exertion or effort directed to produce or accomplish something; labor; toil. </em><br />
<em>2. something on which exertion or labor is expended; a task or undertaking.</em><br />
<em>3. productive or operative activity.</em><br />
<br />
I'm blogging about work because <em>work is a wonderful, beneficial endeavor</em>. Why? Because it gives you a sense of purpose. It stimulates your brain and keeps your body active. <br />
<br />
Ever notice how if you rest for too long, you feel lethargic, mentally slower, and not as alert? Or have you or someone you know had to be on bed rest and experienced muscular atrophy (weakening) as a result? Well, that is because as spiritual beings having a human experience we are designed to be mentally and physically active. <br />
<br />
Therefore, if you volunteer, participate in a hobby, attend school, or have a job, you are doing a wonderful service for yourself. Make sure you APPRECIATE whatever it is that has you being mentally and physically active. <br />
<br />
Best wishes for our <em>(yours and mine)</em> optimal ability to enjoy meaningful, enjoyable work!<br />
<strong><em>Kaja Green-Tovar</em></strong>Kaja for Better Quality of Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17969799162665247055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3371625252036995286.post-59620558940572264752014-07-25T10:10:00.003-07:002014-07-25T10:10:43.977-07:00Senior Citizens Setting Super Examples! Greetings Dear Reader!<br />
<br />
This month is ALMOST over but while we are still in July, I am happily writing about aging well.<br />
<br />
Today I am sharing about senior-aged citizens (and NEAR senior-aged citizens) setting super examples for living and aging well.<br />
<br />
First of all, there is my relative. She works out about 5 days a week, takes excellent care of her skin, eats well, and is married to a gentleman who is younger than her. Now this relative of mine is way too nice to be called an um... <i>'cougar'</i>. She just happened to feel connected to a man who has not been alive as long as she has. <br />
<br />
Then there are a few acquaintances such as Mr. D. Mr. D. has a career in law but recently, at the age of 65, he just earned his Cross-fit Trainer Certification! How about that?! He could just participate, which is also pretty super; however, he chose to share what he knows and train others in his spare time. I'm thinking this might be a 2nd career for him; especially, if he opens his own gymnasium.<br />
<br />There is Mr. L., a happily married and jovial gentleman, who I met along the Meramec Greenway this past week. Mr. L. rides his bike up and down the trail as well as those that are nearby for miles upon miles. Surely, he rides the length of a half marathon, and possibly more. Guess how old Mr. L. is ? Well, when he asked me to guess, I said about 58. Well, the correct answer is 73! Yes, 73! I am inspired by Mr. L. He is definitely setting an awesome example for aging well.<br />
<br />
There are others who are setting super examples for aging and living well. Such as an individual I know who is helping to archive photos and other memorabilia for the religious center of his boyhood days. He is having a grand time reviving the memories and ensuring the religious center's history is not lost.<br />
<br />
Oh! One more example. A few years back, I met an 84 years alive woman who told me she was a Peace Corps volunteer. She looked young and spirited. I can't recall her name but she spoke enthusiastically about flying to different places and helping out. She had a sense of meaning and purpose even though she lived alone. She was visiting my former neighbor when we happend upon each other but I have never forgotten her. That's because I was intrigued by the example she was setting.<br />
<br />
Okay Dear Reader, let's keep a look out for <i>more </i>senior citizens who are setting super examples. Share this with others who may benefit from reading this post.<br />
<br />
Best wishes for our <i>(yours and mine)</i> optimal ability to live and age well,<br />
<i><b>Kaja Green-Tovar </b></i>Kaja for Better Quality of Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17969799162665247055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3371625252036995286.post-62319723497027494152014-07-19T09:23:00.001-07:002014-07-19T10:36:30.889-07:00Aging and Changing Careers! <br />
Greetings Dear Reader! <br />
<br />
So with aging comes change and wisdom, right? Well, I hope so! Throughout our lives change happens but luckily the longer we've been alive, the more capable we are in dealing with new situations, people, or places. <br />
<br />
One major change that can happen is we end a career and start a new one, or decide to volunteer our knowledge, skills, and abilities. Sometimes we do something that is in a totally different field from the one we've been doing, or from what we spent years in college studying for. But you know what?! That's okay!!! <br />
<br />
Really, as we age there will be change. Things are way different from when you're the age of two to twenty-two, twenty-four to forty-four, thirty-six to sixty-six, and so on. <br />
<br />
Let not your heart be troubled if what you've always done is not what you get to do now or tomorrow. Instead, pull up your bootstraps and dare to do something DIFFERENT! <br />
<br />
It's okay to have been a CIA agent and then become a baker, or to have been a fitness trainer and then become a flight attendant. Perhaps you were a police officer once. Well, it's okay to go work as a truant officer so that you don't have to chase hardened criminals. Welcome the opportunity to do something different. <br />
<br />
Choose to forego lamenting about what once was and stay in engaged in life by doing whatever you can do well and will enjoy - which may very well be something different. Don't forget that volunteering is another way to make an impact. <br />
<br />
Best wishes for our <em>(yours and mine)</em> ability to embrace a new career when and if the time ever comes!<br />
<strong><em>-Kaja Green-Tovar</em></strong>Kaja for Better Quality of Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17969799162665247055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3371625252036995286.post-67211818817172582552014-07-18T13:45:00.000-07:002014-07-18T13:45:27.629-07:00Aging and Flirting!
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Greetings Dear Reader! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Another thing about aging well is engaging in flirting! Yes,
flirting. While many of us become very comfortable with our solitude we must be
open to meeting new people and enjoying romance. It doesn’t mean you have to
start planning a wedding date, but be open to chatting or going to coffee with
someone who is interested in you other than only as a platonic friend. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Dare to flirt a little. You never know what might happen.
Don’t worry! Flirting doesn’t mean you have to share your home, bed, or bank
account. It’s just simple fun. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Give someone you might be interested a compliment, a wink,
your business card. You get the idea! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Basically, enjoy flirting. Enjoy yourself – you and the
person you’re flirting with deserves it. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Of course, this is NOT for people who are already in
committed relationships. If you are in a committed relationship then please
make it a point to flirt with your partner. If you don’t, someone else will. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Best wishes for our (yours and mine) optimal quality of
life,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><em><strong>Kaja Green-Tovar <o:p></o:p></strong></em></span><br />
Kaja for Better Quality of Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17969799162665247055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3371625252036995286.post-21253552055884314402014-07-16T16:30:00.002-07:002014-07-16T16:30:47.599-07:00Aging and Change! Greetings Dear Reader! <br />
<br />
Remember this month's topic is about aging. We are all going to do this - I hope. After all, we <em>know</em> the alternative to aging. <br />
<br />
As we continue to live, we have the right and ability to change our minds. We get to decide what we experience and the kinds of interactions we wish to have. <br />
<br />
When we decide to change something, we are choosing to reinvent our experiences, interactions, or opportunities. <br />
<br />
A good example of change at any age is someone choosing a to go to college for the first time or return to college for a new career path. Or it could be a person deciding to move to a different state or country. Whatever the change is, it is akin to reinventing one's life. <br />
<br />
When we make changes in our lives, we gain new experiences and interact with new people. We also get exposed to new opportunities that may not have been present before we made a change.<br />
<br />
I'm not saying to disregard familiarity and stability. We need those in our lives! What I'm advocating is the willingness to try something new; to give change a chance! <br />
<br />
I hope this encourages you to continue trying new experiences and interacting in different social settings. Change at any age, can be a good thing! <br />
<br />
Best wishes for our <em>(yours and mine)</em> optimal quality of life,<br />
<strong><em>Kaja Green-Tovar</em></strong>Kaja for Better Quality of Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17969799162665247055noreply@blogger.com0