For many of us, these past few months have brought unprecedented challenges. Our lives have been radically rearranged in ways that we couldn’t have predicted or prepared well for, even if we had seen it coming. Losses of jobs, routine, income, stability and, most tragically, losses of life have made this time painful and anxiety producing. For some, their entire lives have been turned upside down. When we face such challenges, we are asked to adapt with creativity, positivity and grace, the best … [Read more...] about Seeking Anxiety Relief in Trying Times
Columnists
Understanding the Importance of Nutrition During Recovery
A balanced diet is essential for the body and the brain to function normally. Unfortunately, most Americans do not receive proper nutrition education, and have difficulty consistently eating a well-rounded diet of nutritious, whole foods. Now, imagine that you not only do not know the information, but you also struggle with a substance use disorder (SUD). Individuals who suffer from SUDs often dedicate their finances, energy and time to using. Substances can cloud the brain’s ability to make … [Read more...] about Understanding the Importance of Nutrition During Recovery
Offering Flagstaff Real Estate Advice in a Busy Market
When the world is filled with uncertainty in these unprecedented times, it can be scary to decide what actions to take that will make sense in the future. Luckily, there is a world of experts who can guide us for all matters in real estate in the midst of these choppy waters. The COVID-19 crisis is a massive tragedy and will change the world as we know it. As with all things, however, this too shall pass. We are resilient and hopefully will adjust to our new world the best we can. Our nation, … [Read more...] about Offering Flagstaff Real Estate Advice in a Busy Market
Pollinators Still Need Our Help
Flagstaff should give itself a pat on the back. A few years ago, the National Pollinator Garden Network (NPGN), a group of stakeholders in the gardening, pollinator and conservation communities, challenged Americans to create one million gardens rich in pollen and nectar-filled flowers to help out our pollinators like bees, birds and butterflies. In three short years, the NPGN reached that goal. When they announced their success last year, the NPGN called attention to a handful of communities … [Read more...] about Pollinators Still Need Our Help
Easing the Stress of the Times with Massage
The current events of our time – from politics to health concerns – can be stressful and exhausting. One of the best ways to quiet the mind and relax the body is through massage. Research shows that massage has numerous health benefits – and not just our physical health, but also our mental and emotional health as well. If we feel refreshed, we are able to function better in all of our roles. Massage Styles & Techniques Massage is not one-size-fits-all; rather, it is a personalized … [Read more...] about Easing the Stress of the Times with Massage
Moving Forward Through Economic Impacts of the Pandemic
Now that our county and the entire nation are in the middle of the COVID-19 crisis with no clear end in sight, we are witnessing the economic impacts locally, especially since the first round of federal stimulus programs have ended. While we await the next major legislation package to be voted on in mid-August, we must keep our families, our employees and our communities intact. As Winston Churchill said, “If you’re going through hell, keep going.” This is exactly what the middle of the COVID … [Read more...] about Moving Forward Through Economic Impacts of the Pandemic
How to Love Your Hearing Aids
You have a hearing loss and the family is driving you crazy to get something done. But, you feel that one more thing added to your life will push you over the top. If this sounds familiar, I have some wonderful ideas for you! First, get your hearing tested by an audiologist. He or she will check for wax in the canals, or medical causes for your hearing difficulty. What if your hearing loss can be treated medically and you were dragging your feet for nothing? If the audiologist says nope, it … [Read more...] about How to Love Your Hearing Aids
Local Elections Determine Day-to-Day Life
Hello, Northern Arizona! As I write this, summer is coming to a close and we are gearing up for what is going to be an unusual fall. Also as I write, people are voting. I love voting. My mother instilled a deep respect for the democratic process in my brother and me and brought us to register to vote when we turned 18. She made sure I knew that people died for my right to vote, heroes like the late John Lewis were beaten fighting for my right to vote. I have never missed an election. This … [Read more...] about Local Elections Determine Day-to-Day Life
When is Allergy Season in Northern Arizona?
It’s ragweed time again! It seems like allergies are a year-round problem in Northern Arizona. Why is that? We live in a unique climate because of the lower elevation areas surrounding Flagstaff. Pollen can travel very long distances, so we are also affected by allergy season in the Phoenix, Sedona and Cottonwood areas. So, when Flagstaff is covered with snow, juniper pollen travels from warmer climates. As the state heats up, people go outdoors, wildflowers bloom and ragweed comes to Flagstaff. … [Read more...] about When is Allergy Season in Northern Arizona?
NAU Supporting Businesses, Communities During COVID-19
Outside of the critical work of preparing Northern Arizona University for the return to campus, researchers, faculty and staff have been working hard to find vaccines, improve testing and support stressed communities and local businesses as they live through the various effects of the pandemic. One recent effort to enhance consumer confidence is an NAU partnership with Coconino County Health and Human Services to provide a COVID Aware Enhanced Food Handler’s Certification. The curriculum … [Read more...] about NAU Supporting Businesses, Communities During COVID-19