This timely article in USA Today offers some sound advice for snow shovelers with cardiac risk factors (age being prominent among them). In addition to their sound advice: be aware of symptoms (chest pain, palpitations), layer up to stay warm, avoid strenuous exertion if one has or suspects coronary artery disease, push rather than lift snow as able, one can also pace oneself: go slow and take breaks. The combination of cold and wind plus heavy exertion creates a setting f

Volunteering has long been recognized as a spiritual practice, where people may contribute time and efforts to support their community. The benefits that it has for the volunteers and the community are vast. Those who volunteer regularly will share that the experience reinforces the activity. People who find volunteering meaningful make a connection that lifts their spirits and plays a positive role in their mental health. Volunteering strengthens communities, supports tho

by Marcia Kipp-Adams, LCSW If you haven’t heard, there has been an uptick of loneliness trending before the COVID19 Epidemic. What is surprising or maybe not so surprising is the latest demographic of people who are lonely. In May of 2023, Dr. Vivek Murthy (U.S. Surgeon General) produced an advisory, entitled “The U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory on the Healing Effects of Social Connection and Community.” https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/surgeon- general-social-connecti