North Atlanta Fit Life by Hidden Values

F Lift e i

LIFESTYLE • HEALTH • FITNESS

ActIVate

Big

Body

Gameday

Harmony

Jazzercise

JetSet Pilates

Joni

Light

North

R5 Wellness

Treatments

Tracie Morse ~Owner/Publisher

BEST PLACES BEST PLACES BEST PLACES

TO WORK OUT TO WORK OUT TO WORK OUT

Whether you are beginning your fitness journey, or looking for a new challenge, this is your guide to the best places to work out in North Atlanta! (Hours vary. Give them a call!)

BODYBAR Pilates-Alph

210 South Main Street

Suite E

Alpharetta 30009

678-336-0284

www.bodybarpilates.com/studios /alpharetta/

~ Learn More on Page 13 ~

Jazzercise Alpharetta

10525 Old Alabama Rd Conn

Alpharetta 30022

706-974-9431

https://www.jazzercise.ch/location/j azzercise-alpharetta-north-pointfitness-center

~ Learn More on Page 21 ~

Senergy Fitness

10595 Old Alabama Rd Conn Suite 21

Alpharetta 30022

470-282-5225

https://senergyfitness.com

HOTWORX - Alpharetta

869 N Main St Suite 205

Alpharetta 30009

470-567-9679

www.hotworx.net/studio /alpharetta-northmain

Truth in Motion Yoga

1875 Old Alabama Rd, Suite 845

Roswell 30076

678-575-7452

www.truthinmotionyoga.com

Alloy Personal Training

Windward

3070 Webb Bridge Way Suite J

Alpharetta 30005

678-990-2061

www.windwardplaza. alloypersonaltraining.com

BODYBAR Pilates-Roswell

ConneXion

1570 Holcomb Bridge Rd Roswell 3007

678-336-2377

www.bobybarpilates.com/roswell/ ~Learn more on Page 13 ~

Starting Strength

9775 Medlock Bridge Road, Suite K Johns Creek 470-944-7715

www.startingstrengthgyms.com/ atlanta/

HOTWORX - Johns Creek

3005 Old Alabama Rd Johns Creek 30022 678-691-4971

www.hotworx.net/studio/johnscreekalpharetta

Anytime Fitness

9945 Jones Bridge Rd Johns Creek 30022 678-713-8373

www.anytimefitness.com

MIND-BODY CONNECTION

COULD YOUR THOUGHTS BE THE MOST POWERFUL MEDICINE?

By: Liz Taylor

We've all heard the phrase "mind over matter," but what if our thoughts actually were as powerful as medicine? Multiple research studies have documented how stress wreaks havoc on our bodies by triggering chronic inflammation. This isn't just about feeling tired or anxious. Chronic inflammation significantly increases our risk of heart disease, certain cancers, diabetes, asthma, Alzheimer's disease, and countless othermedicalconditions.

If negative thoughts and stress can cause such measurable harm to our bodies, it raises an important question: can positive thinkinghavetheoppositeeffect? Theresearchsuggestsitcan.

SCIENCE SAYS: OPTIMISM IMPACTS LONGEVITY AND DISEASE RISK

One study from Harvard’s School of Public Healthfoundthatoptimistslive,onaverage, 11 to 15 percent longer than pessimists and have an excellent chance of living beyond age 85. The cardiovascular benefits are particularly striking. A separate study indicates that individuals with higher levels of optimism have a 35% lower risk of experiencing a cardiovascular event compared to those with lower levels of optimism.

A positive mindset isn't just about "feeling good." It creates tangible health benefits that scientists can measure. Some of the documented physiological changes that occur when we shift our mental patterns include faster recovery from illness and injury, stronger immune system function, reduced chronic pain, improved stress management and coping skills, better sleep quality,andloweranxietylevels.

WHAT YOU FOCUS ON, GROWS

As an avid cyclist, I learned an important lesson about cornering at speed: you have to look through the turn, not at it. If you want to navigate a corner successfully,youlookwhereyouwantto go,notattheobstacleyouwanttoavoid. Focus on the obstacle, and you're likely tohitit.Yourbikefollowsyourgaze.

This principle also applies to our thoughts. Our mental focus determines our direction, and our direction determines our outcomes. The challenge? Approximately 90% of our thoughts are subconscious, so we're letting unchecked mental chatter steer ourlives.

HOW TO TAKE BACK CONTROL: THREE PRACTICAL STEPS

Step 1: Slow Down and Notice

Before you can change your thought patterns, you need to become aware of them. The most effective tool for this is breathwork. Simple, intentional breathing will quiet the mental noise and create space for awareness. Try box breathing or 4-7-8 breathing to get started and see what works best for you.

Step

2: Replace, Don’t Just Remove

powerful here. Instead of just setting goals, shift your identity. Don't just want to run a marathon—be a runner. This mindset shift makes positive habits more sustainable.

HEALTHY OPTIMISM ISN’T TOXIC POSITIVITY

It’s important to distinguish between healthyoptimismandtoxicpositivity.The goal isn’t to ignore real problems or “just be happy.” Healthy optimism acknowledges challenges while maintaining belief in your ability to navigatethem.It's“ThisishardANDIcan handleit,”not“Everything’sfine.”

The evidence is clear: our thoughts have measurable effects on our physical health. While positive thinking isn't a cure-all, it's a powerful, accessible tool with no negative side effects. Use it to complement—not replace—professional medicalcare.

Recognizing negative thoughts is only half the battle. Once you notice them, replace them with positive, truthful alternatives. This practice may feel awkward at first, but over time it rewires your brain to think more positively.

Step 3: Focus on Identity, Not Just Goals

James Clear’s concept of identity-based habits from Atomic Habits is especially

Start small. Notice your thoughts. Breathe deeply.

Replace negative patterns. Focus on who you’re becoming. Your mind might just be the most powerful medicine you’ll ever have accessto.

Light Up the Corners Glow Run

RUNNING

BIG PEACH ALPHARETTA FREE RUN/WALK CLUB

Monday Group Run @6:30p

Wednesday Group Run @6:30p 5530 Windward Pkwy Alpharetta

BIG PEACH SUWANEE FREE RUN/ WALK CLUB

Tuesday Group Run @6:30p

Thursday Group Run @6:30p Town Center Park, Suwanee

BIG PEACH CUMMING FREE RUN/ WALK CLUB

Thursday Group Run @7:00p

Saturday Group Run @8:00a 5485 Bethelview Rd, Cumming

AJC 56 Peachtree Road Race th Friday, July 4 @ 6:00a Lenox Square, Atlanta

8TH ANNUAL GREAT AMERICAN 5K

Friday, July 4 @8:00a Little Mulberry Park 3855 Fence Rd, Auburn

BLUE RIDGE FREEDOM 5K

Friday, July 4 @7:30a Blue Ridge Sip and Play

342 E Main St, Blue Ridge

RED, WHITE, AND BLUE 5K/10K

Friday, July 4 @7:45a Halcyon

6365 Halcyon Way, Alpharetta

THE MOB MENTALITY 5K

Sunday, July 6 @8:00a

Bay Creek Park

175 Ozora Rd, Loganville

HOT FUN IN THE SUMMER SUN 5K

Saturday, July 26 @8:00a

AMC Theatre

2600 Cobb Pl Ln NW, Kennesaw

ETOWAH RIVER PARK SUMMER CLASSIC 5K/10K

Saturday, August 9 @8:15a

Etowah River Park

600 Brown Industrial Pkwy, Canton

THE PURPOSE RUN 5K

Sunday, August 10 @8:00a

Rhodes Jordan Park

100 E Crogan St, Lawrenceville

LIGHT UP THE CORNERS GLOW RUN

Friday, August 15 @8:30p The Forum, Peachtree Pkwy

5TH ANNUAL COACH RAMOS LEGACY 5K

Saturday, August 16 @8:00a North Gwinnett Church

4973 West Price Rd, Suwanee

MAGNOLIA RUN AND WALK FOR EPILEPSY

Saturday, August 16 @8:00a

4 Concourse Dr, Sandy Springs

ANNANDALE VILLAGE EXTRA MILE 5K

Saturday, August 23 @8:00a Town Center Park Suwanee

RACETRAC’S 12TH ANNUAL RUN FOR RESEARCH

Saturday, August 23 @8:00a

The Battery Atlanta

800 Battery Ave, Atlanta

THE FIREBOLT 5K

Saturday, August 23 @8:00a

Tribble Mill Park

2125 Tribble Mill Park, Lawrenceville

LABOR DAY DASH

Saturday, August 30 @7:30a

Etowah River Park

600 Brown Industrial Pkwy Canton

LABOR DAY WEEKEND 5K

Saturday, August 30 @8:00a

Little Mulberry Park 3855 Fence Rd, Dacula

BIG PEACH SIZZLER 5K/10K

Monday, September 1 @7:00a Chamblee

LABOR DAY 5K/10K/15K

Monday, September 1 @8:00a

AMC Theatre

2600 Cobb Pl Ln NW, Kennesaw

July/August 2025

RUNNING

ROAD RACE FOR EDUCATION

Monday, September 1 @8:00a

560 Fayetteville Rd, Atlanta

3RD ANNUAL FRANKLIN

COUNTY 4-H 5K

Saturday, September 6 @8:00a

Franklin County School District Office

280 Busha Rd, Carnesville

THE ADMH RUN FOR HEALTH

Sunday, September 7 @9:00a

Brook Run Park

4770 N Peachtree Rd, Dunwoody

THE CHALLENGE RACE

Sunday, September 7 @8:00a

Alexander Park

800 Old Snellville Hwy

Lawrenceville

HALF MARATHON/ TRIATHALON

SAWNEE MOUNTAIN 4.0/3.1 MI TRAIL RUN

Saturday, July 12 @8:00a

Sawnee Mountain Preserve 4075 Spot Rd, Cumming

CHRISTMAS IN JULY 5K/10K/ HALF MARATHON

Saturday, July 19 @7:30a New Realm Brewing

550 Somerset Ter NE, Atlanta

RED TOP ROASTER 8.85/3.1 MI TRAIL RUN

Saturday, July 26 @8:00a Red Top Mountain State Park 50 Lodge Rd, Cartersville

POPSICLE 5K/10K/HALF MARATHON

Saturday, August 16 @7:00a New Realm Brewing

550 Somerset Ter NE, Atlanta

CommunityEvents

POPSICLE 5K/10K/HALF MARATHON

Saturday, August 16 @7:00a

New Realm Brewing

550 Somerset Ter NE, Atlanta

IM BOUND FOR BOSTON HALF MARATHON/MARATHON

Sunday, August 31 @6:30a

4030 Johns Creek Pkwy, Suwanee

5K TRAIL RACE

Saturday, September 6 @8:00a Pinecrest Academy 955 Peachtree Pkwy, Cumming

FREE YOGA/FITNESS

AVALOM

Wednesdays @6:00p

April Thru October

Avalon, Alpharetta

NEWTOWN PARK FREE FITNESS

Newtown Park Amphitheater

3150 Old Alabama Rd

Johns Creek

Lift Yoga, Sundays, 10:00a Yoga, Mondays, 6:00p Yoga, Tuesdays, 8:00a Zumba, Wednesday, 6:00p Fitness, Thursdays, 10:30a Cardio Strength (May 24 –Aug. 30)

CAULEY CREEK FREE FITNESS

7255 Bell Road, Johns Creek

·Walking, Wednesdays, 8:00a Zumba, Thursdays, 8:00a Strength, Fridays, 4:00p Yoga, Saturdays, 9:30a

ALPHARETTA FREE FITNESS

Tuesdays thru October 6:00 – 7:00p

Town Green

2001 Commerce St, Alpharetta

ALPHARETTA FREE YOGA

Saturdays: 9:00 -10:00a

Sundays: 9:30 - 10:30a

Formal Garden @ Brooke St. Park

2 Park Plaza, Alpharetta

FORUM FIT

Wednesdays @6:00p

April thru October

The Forum

5155 Peachtree Pkwy

Peachtree Corners

CHAIR YOGA

Wednesdays @10:15a

Northeast Spruill Oaks Library

9560 Spruill Rd, Johns Creek

YOGA ON THE GREEN

Tuesdays @ 8:00a June thru Sept

The Town Green 5140 Town Center Blvd

Peachtree Corners

YOGA

Fridays @11:00a

Northeast Spruill Oaks Library

9560 Spruill Rd, Johns Creek

HEALING MEDITATION

Wednesday, July 2 @11:15a

Wednesday, August 6 @11:15a

Northeast Spruill Oaks Library

9560 Spruill Rd, Johns Creek

YOGA FOR BONE HEALTH

Wednesday, July 9 & 23 @10:15a

Wednesday, August 13 & 27 @10:15a

Northeast Spruill Oaks Library

9560 Spruill Rd, Johns Creek

WOMEN’S WHOLESOME WELLNESS

Wednesday, July 16 @6:00p

Wednesday, August 20 @6:00p

Northeast Spruill Oaks Library

MILTON YOGA CLASS

Wednesday, July 17 @10:00a

Friendship Park

12785 Birmingham Hwy, Milton

July/August 2025

FREE YOGA/FITNESS

BOMBAY JAM ZUMBA

Wednesday, July 24 @7:00p

Milton City Park & Preserve 1785 Dinsmore Rd, Alpharetta

MYSTERY OF MEDITATION

Wednesday, July 24 @10:00a Milton City Hall

STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING

Wednesday, July 24 @8:30a

Milton City Park & Preserve 1785 Dinsmore Rd, Alpharetta

COMMUNITY EVENTS

AVALON NIGHTS LIVE

Fridays @6:00p

Avalon, Alpharetta

FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE

Fridays @6:00p

April Thru October

The Forum

5155 Peachtree Pkwy

Peachtree Corners

GROOVIN’ ON THE GREEN

Fridays & Saturdays @6:00p

March Thru November

Halcyon Forsyth

PARSONS THURS NIGHTS OUT

Thursdays @6:00p

Parsons Alley

3067 Main St, Duluth

ROCK THE BLOCK: LIVE & LOUD

Fridays @6:00p

May thru September

Town Green

3142 Hill St NW, Duluth

WEDNESDAY FLAVORS ON MAIN

Wednesdays @6:00p

May Thru September

Downtown Duluth

INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION

Thursday, July 3 @6:00p

Newtown Park

3150 Old Alabama Rd, Johns Creek

CommunityEvents

SUMMER CONCERT SERIES

Friday, July 3 @6:00p

Friday, August 1 @6:00p

Mark Burkhalter Amphitheater 2150 Old Alabama Rd, Johns Creek

FLICKS ON THE GREEN

Saturday, July 5 @7:00p

Saturday, August 2 @7:00p

The Town Green

5140 Town Center Blvd

Peachtree Corners

STARS AND COFFEE

Saturday, July 5 @10:00a

Saturday, August 2 @10:00a

Halcyon Forsyth

PUNCHLINE COMEDY NIGHT

Monday, July 7 @7:30p

Monday, August 4 @7:30p

Avalon, Alpharetta

MOVIES AT NEWTON PARK

Friday, July 11 @7:00p

Newtown Park 3125 Old Alabama Rd, Johns Creek

SUMMER STAGE CONCERT

Saturday, July 12 @8:00a

Town Green

3142 Hill St NW, Duluth

MIDSUMMER KIDS FESTIVAL

Saturday, July 19 @2:00p

The Town Green

5140 Town Center Blvd

Peachtree Corners

MOVIES AND MOCKTAILS

Saturday, July 19 @7:00p

Saturday, August 2 @7:00p

Town Center Park

421 Main St, Suwanee

FLICKS ON THE BRICKS

Friday, July 25 @6:00p

Town Green

3142 Hill St NW, Duluth

AUGUST CONCERT

Friday, August 9 @6:00p

Town Center Park, Suwanee

PEACHTREE CORNERS HAS TALENT

Saturday, August 23 @4:00p

The Town Green

5140 Town Center Blvd, Peachtree Corners

UNDER THE STARS

Saturday, August 23 @6:00p

Brook Street Park

2 Park Plaza, Alpharetta

FARMERS MARKETS

ALPHARETTA FARMERS MARKET

Saturdays @8:30a

April Thru November

Downtown Alpharetta

ALPHARETTA MOONLIGHT MARKET

Fridays @5:00p

May Thru September

Alpharetta City Center

2001 Commerce St, Alpharetta

SUWANEE FARMERS MARKET

Saturdays @8:00a

May Thru September

Town Center Park

421 Main St, Suwanee

PEACHTREE CORNERS FARMERS MARKET

Saturdays May 10 - August 30 8:30am - 11:30am

5140 Town Center Blvd

Peachtree Corners

DULUTH FARMERS AND ARTISAN MARKET

Sunday, July 6 & 20 @2:00p

Sunday, August 3 & 17 @2:00p

Town Green

3142 Hill St NW, Duluth

MILTON FARMERS MARKET

Wednesday, July 16

Wednesday, August 20

2:00 - 6:00p

3300 Heritage Walk, Milton

Delicious, heart-healthy, and affordable - perfect for every age

A Time-Tested Approach to Eating Well

The Mediterranean Diet first gained attention in the 1970s with Dr. Ancel Keys’ Seven Countries Study, which found that populations near the Mediterranean Sea had some of the lowest rates of coronary heart disease. This traditional way of eating emphasizes plant-based foods, healthy fats like extra virgin olive oil, and minimal red meat or processed foods.

Appropriate for all ages, the Mediterranean Diet encourages sustainable habits that are delicious, simple, and proven to support

lifelong health.

What Makes the Mediterranean Diet Special

Here’s a closer look at the corecomponents of this heart-healthy, flavorful approach:

Whole Grains

Grains like bulgur, quinoa, couscous, farro, barley, and brown rice are fiber-rich and loaded with vitamins and minerals that refined grains lack. Choose whole grain bread, brown rice, and pasta for long-lasting energy and digestive support.

Fruits and Vegetables

A wide variety of seasonal, local and colorful produce is low in calories and packed with antioxidants, fiber & nutrients. Higher fruit and vegetable consumption is linked to a reduced risk of chronic diseases.

Legumes, Nuts, and Seeds

These are the main plant-based proteins in the Mediterranean Diet. Lentils, beans, almonds, and sunflower seeds offer

minerals, fiber, and healthy fats. Studies link them to a lower risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and some cancers.

Healthy Fats

Olive oil replaces butter and processed oils as the main source of fat, offering monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) that help raise HDL (“good”) cholesterol and reduce inflammation. Olive oil possesses antioxidant and anti-clotting properties.

Lean Proteins

Seafood, poultry, and eggs are preferred over red meats. Fatty fish like salmon, tuna, and sardines are also excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids that reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke.

Dairy in Moderation

Natural options like feta, Parmesan, and Greek yogurt offer calcium and protein with less processing. Stick to a few servings per week and avoid sugary, high-fat varieties.

Wine - If You Choose to Drink

Some studies suggest that moderate red wine consumption with meals may have heart benefits. However, it’s not without risk - particularly for young adults. One in four deaths among Americans aged 20 to 34 involves alcohol. Know your limits and weigh the pros and cons.

Daily Physical Activity

Pairing the Mediterranean Diet with 30 minutes of movement most days of the week helps improve heart health, manage weight, and reduce stress. Walking, gardening, or light stretching all count.

Stay Hydrated Aim to drink half your body weight in ounces of water daily. For a 140-pound person, that’s about 70 ounces. Water supports every system in your body and helps prevent overeating.

Use Herbs Instead of Salt

Mediterranean Diet cooking features bold herbs and spices - like basil, oregano, rosemary, and thyme - for flavor and color, not sodium.

Long-Term Health Benefits

Multiple U.S. and European studies show that consistent adherence to the Mediterranean Diet is associated with a reduced risk of:

• Cancer

• Cardiovascular disease

• Metabolic syndrome

• Alzheimer’s disease

• Parkinson’s disease

This isn’t a quick-fix diet - it’s a lifelong lifestyle that promotes overall well-being and longevity.

Smart Grocery Tips

Eating Mediterranean Diet style doesn’t require exotic shopping trips. Farmers markets and grocery stores, especially from April – October, are stocked with seasonal options.

Try these simple swaps:

• Choose more fruits and vegetables than other items • Pick whole grain pasta and bread (check for “whole wheat” as the first ingredient) • Choose extra virgin olive oil over butter or margarine • Buy frozen or canned fruits and veggies when fresh options are too pricey

Eating Healthy on a Budget

You don’t have to overspend to follow the Mediterranean Diet. Try these cost-saving ideas:

• Greek yogurt is high in protein but may cost more Regular, low-fat, low-sugar yogurt is a good alternative.

• Canned fish like tuna and salmon are budget-friendly sources of omega-3s.

• Meat alternatives such as eggs, beans, and nuts are protein-rich and often cheaper than meat.

• Seasonal produce is typically fresher, more affordable, and more nutritious. Frozen or canned veggies are also smart options with longer shelf lives.

By: Ines Beltran, UGA Gwinnett Family & Consumer Sciences Agent

Diets with Similar Benefits Other evidence-based diets, such as the DASH Diet, USDA’s MyPlate, and the American Heart Association’s lifestyle guidelines, share many of the same benefits. What makes the Mediterranean Diet distinct is its focus on:

• Olive oil and olives

• Wine in moderation

• Fresh herbs and spices instead of salt

More Than a Diet

Healthy eating is only one piece of the puzzle. A truly balanced lifestyle includes regular movement, restorative sleep, social connections, and stress management.

For families looking to nourish their bodies and simplify their meals, the Mediterranean Diet offers a delicious, flexible, and science-backed approach to living well - starting with what’s on your plate.

FreshFARE

Cod with Lentils and Dijon Herb Sauce

health.clevelandclinic.org/recipe-cod-with-lentils-and-salsa-verde

INSTRUCTIONS

¾ cup green lentils, rinsed

INGREDIENTS

5 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons

extra-virgin olive oil

1 yellow onion, chopped

1 carrot, chopped

1 rib celery, chopped

¼ teaspoon kosher salt

1 cup grape tomatoes, quartered

¼ cup chopped flat-leaf parsley

8 basil leaves, chopped

1 tablespoon capers, chopped

½ teaspoon Dijon mustard

1 tablespoon white wine vinegar

⅛ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

4 4-ounce pieces cod fillet (or tilapia)

1. To make the lentils, fill a medium saucepan with water and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Add the lentils. Simmer until tender but still hold their shape, 20 to 25 minutes. Drain.

2. Meanwhile in a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of the oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion, carrot, celery and salt and cook, stirring often, until softened, about 10 minutes. Remove from the heat and stir in the tomatoes and lentils.

3. To make the Dijon herb sauce, in a small bowl combine the parsley, basil, capers, mustard, vinegar, 3 tablespoons of the oil and the pepper.

4. Heat the oven to 375°F.

5. To make the fish, line a sheet pan with parchment paper. Add the fish and drizzle with the remaining 2 teaspoons oil (½ teaspoon per piece). Bake until opaque throughout and flakes easily, about 10 minutes.

6. Serve the fish over the lentils and top with the Dijon herb sauce.

Makes 4 servings. Each serving has:Calories 425, Total fat21g,Saturated fat 3g, Protein 31g Carbohydrate 49g, Dietary fiber 6g, Sugar 5g, Added sugar 0g, Cholesterol 49mg, Sodium 315mg

Quinoa and Asian Pear Salad recipes.heart.org/en/recipes/quinoa-and-asian-pear-salad---delicious-decisions

INSTRUCTIONS

INGREDIENTS (Servings 6)

1 cup uncooked quinoa (rinsed, drained)

4 oz. snow peas (trimmed) Asian pear, chopped into 1/2-inch pieces, peeled

1/4 cup red bell pepper (diced) 1/4 cup chopped pecans (dry-roasted)

1 medium green onion (chopped, (green part only))

1 tsp. sesame seeds (dry-roasted)

2 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice

1 Tbsp. olive oil (extra virgin preferred)

1 tsp. toasted sesame oil

1/4 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. pepper

1. Prepare the quinoa using the package directions, omitting the salt. Transfer to a medium bowl. Fluff with a fork. Let cool.

2. Meanwhile, fill a small saucepan halfway with water. Bring to a boil over high heat. Cook the snow peas for about 45 seconds, or until bright green and tender-crisp. Drain in a colander. Plunge into a bowl of cold water to stop the cooking process. Drain well in a colander. Cut the snow peas into 1/2-inch pieces.

3. Stir the snow peas, pear, bell pepper, pecans, green onion, and sesame seeds into the quinoa.

4. In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining ingredients. Stir into the quinoa mixture, tossing gently to coat. Let stand for 15 minutes so the flavors blend. Serve at room temperature or cover and refrigerate for 1 hour to serve chilled.

Cooking Tip: To prevent the Asian pear from browning, place the chopped pieces in cold water until you’re ready to use them. If Asian pears aren’t available, you can substitute a sweet eating apple, such as a Gala, or another crisp pear, such as a Bosc.

A Resource for our Community Life Lifeenior eniorS S

WelcometoSeniorLife! WelcometoSeniorLife!

We are excited to bring you this SENIOR LIFE section, designed to be a resource not only for the aging members (aren’t we all?) of our community, but also for their spouses and children, who are tasked with figuring out how to help their loved ones live happy, healthy, and fulfilled lives in their later years.

We hope this SENIOR LIFE section connects with you, your family, and friends as we bring you:

Relevant Content

Events Curated for the Senior Community

A Collection Of Collaborations

Trusted Businesses Dedicated to our Seniors

Know someone who needs assistance to manage a new situation or transition? Please refer them to SENIOR LIFE as it becomes the go-to, trusted resource for our senior community.

Understanding the risks - and simple steps to help keep older adults safe, mobile, and independent

Common Fall Risk Factors

Effectivesenior fall prevention starts with identifying the risks. These may include:

• Medications that cause dizziness or drowsiness

• Poor lighting and cluttered walkways

• Loose rugs, cords, or small furniture

• Improper footwear or slippery socks

These small hazards can have big consequences.

Smart Senior Fall Prevention Tips

Why Senior Fall Prevention Is So Important

Senior fallpreventionis a critical part of staying healthy and independent as we age. Falls are the leading cause of injury-related deaths in people 65 and older. In fact, the risk of mortality after a fall is nearly 10% within the first month. That number jumps to 33% within one year. These are not just bumps and bruises - they can be life-altering events.

The Danger Behind a Fall

As we get older, healing takes longer. What used to be a minor injury can become a major setback. In seniors, a fall often leads to hospitalization - and a longer hospital stay brings risks of infection, muscle loss, and other complications. Immobility is especially dangerous. The longer a senior is off their feet, the less likely they are to return to their previous level of mobility. That can set off a chain reaction of physical and emotional decline.

Fear, Anxiety, and the Emotional Impact

Senior fall prevention isn’tjust about physical health. It’s also about peace of mind. A bad fall can trigger fear, anxiety, and even depression. Older adults who once walked daily or enjoyed social outings may now stay inside, afraid to fall again.

And for some, the trauma of lying on the floor for hours—or even overnight—before being found can have lasting effects, both mentally and physically.

Remove tripping hazards, tape down rugs, add grab bars in bathrooms, and increase lighting in dark areas. A few small changes can make a big difference.

Avoid high heels, floppy slippers, or slick soles. Instead, wear well-fitted shoes with non-skid bottoms. Even socks can be slippery—opt for rubber-soled socks if needed.

Talk to your doctor about your risk factors. Review medications and discuss any balance issues. Ask about senior fall prevention strategies that are personalized to your needs.

Final Thoughts on Senior Fall Prevention

Seniorfall prevention is one of themost important ways to protect long-term health and independence. A few proactive steps can lower fall risk and help seniors stay active, confident, and engaged. Because when it comes to falls, prevention truly is the best medicine.