Health Life September/October Magazine

Challenge Yourself With Spartan Races Be Adventurous With Your Diet

Is

Real?

HOSPICE

of South Georgia Langdale Hospice House

September/October 2018 | FREE 1

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We’re diving even deeper into all things health related.

With an emphasis on physical health, nutrition, fitness and training, and lifestyle, we want to inform you and inspire you to live a healthy life.

For more information contact our main office at 229-469-7373 or email us at healthlifesga@gmail.com

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Sept/Oct

Letter From the Editor The first half of the year has flown by, and winter holidays will be here before we know it. Now is the time to take stock of our lives and decide what direction we want the rest of the year to go in. Have we achieved any of our resolutions or goals? Are we still on our way to them? Did we get off track around April and have no idea how to get back on?

Fret not. That is precisely what this time of year is for: reflection, revision, and renovation. If we’ve achieved the goals we set earlier in the year, what new ones can we set for ourselves? If we’re still on our way to those goals, what else can we do to get there? If we started strong and got lost along the way, what do we need to do to put ourselves back on the right path?

The answers to these questions aren’t easy, but nothing worth achieving is.

We can’t jump straight into action and expect to see the results we want. We must take the time to decide what we want, make a plan, and figure out how to put that plan into motion. If Plan A doesn’t work, then we must learn, adjust, and move on to Plan B. Living a healthy life means making a conscious effort to do so.

In that spirit, we here at Health Life want to share with you stories that will help you live a longer, healthier, and happier life. Our articles emphasize physical health, nutrition, fitness and training, and lifestyle and deliver the genuine, personal stories of our South Georgia community.

In this issue, we speak with Hospice of South Georgia about their beginnings and meet their Langdale Hospice House and home care teams. Read more to learn about how Hospice of South Georgia has helped dozens of patients and their families through the end-of-life journey.

We also talk to a mother from Adel whose two young sons were diagnosed with rare brain tumors within weeks of each other. We dive into bulletproof coffee, chickens as therapy animals for senior citizens, and goat yoga. We give you tips on how to support friends and family who are artists living with mental illness.

We investigate if FOMO (the fear of missing out) is real and it’s effects on mental health. We explore the trends of obstacle course racing and elastic therapy taping, giving you tips for both. That and more fill the pages of this magazine.

We’re diving deeper into all things health-related, and we’re committed to bringing you accurate information and authentic stories all based in our South Georgia region. The desire to deliver relevant, engaging content drives every change we make and every article we publish. If anything in this magazine inspires you to change for the better in some way, we’ve done our job.

Live Health Life!

Contributors Publisher Mark Dykes Editor Anna Limoges Magazine Director Anna Limoges Graphics Mandy Douthit

Feature Writers Alex Dunn Hillary Griffin Hope Hathcock Julie Jernigan Anna Limoges Joshua Miller Bryce Ethridge Diamante Hewitt Betsy Perry Thacker, MD Lindsey Rogers

Cover Photography Micki K. Photography Feature Photography Micki K. Photography Eric Vinson

Advertising/ Marketing Mark Dykes mark@itgnext.com Website Manager Mandy Douthit

Copy Editor Anna Limoges

Have questions or comments?

Give us a call at 888.715.4263 or email us at healthlifesga@gmail.com Health Life Magazine is published bi-monthly. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced in part or in full without written consent from the publisher. Dykes Media Group LLC makes no representation or warranty of any kind for accuracy of content. All advertisements are assumed by the publisher to be correct. Copyright 2018 Dykes Media Group LLC. All rights reserved. ISSN 1945-1458.

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Contents

2018

7

Identifying Learning Disorders

8

Be Adventurous With Your Diet

9

Get Your Glow On!

10

The Benefits of Grilling

12

2 Brothers, 2 Tumors, 1 Battle

14

Chickens for Seniors

15

Bulletproof Coffee on the Rise

16

Hospice of South Georgia

20

So Sweet, but Ow! My Teeth!

21

Pros and Cons of Goat Yoga

22

Challenge Yourself With Spartan Races

25

Don’t Just Deal With Sciatica Pain

26

180-Degree Turn on Life

28

Keep Going With Kinesio Taping

29

Say SUP to Stand Up Paddleboarding

30

Mental Health as a Creative

31

Is FOMO Real?

Thacker Dermatology Pool Store

Langdale Hospice House

If you’re in search of great stories, we have the answer.

Healthlifemagazine.com features stories from the magazine, trending topics, recipes, and much more all at your finger tips. There is even a spot to submit your ideas to us.

1 in 7 Americans, has some type of learning disability, according to the National Institutes of Health.

of students with learning disabilities have reading problems.

Identifying Learning Disorders

Written by: Hope Hathcock

A learning disability is a neurological disorder that is used as an umbrella term for a wide variety of problems. However, learning disabilities are not correlated to intelligence or motivation, for those who are diagnosed simply have brains that are wired differently.

This difference affects how one receives and processes information and requires one to be taught in a manner tailored to an individual learning style. There are many strategies to assist students in working with their disorders in order to achieve success in school

and in life. These are lifelong issues that cannot be cured or fixed, yet learning disabilities do not prevent accomplishments. Individuals such as Albert Einstein, Walt Disney, and George Patton all possessed learning disabilities.

General signs of learning disorders differ by age. Preschoolers tend to speak later than most children, have pronunciation problems, struggle with rhyming words, and have trouble interacting with peers. In Grades K-4, students make consistent reading and spelling errors, confuse

arithmetic signs, possess an unstable pencil grip, and struggle with learning about time. Those in Grades 5-8 avoid reading aloud, have difficulty with handwriting, have trouble understanding body language and facial expressions, and are slow to learn root words, prefixes, and suffixes.

High school students and adults have trouble with open-ended questions, struggle adjusting to new settings, work slowly, and have a poor grasp of abstract concepts.

of the population have undiagnosed learning disabilities.

(National Institute for Literacy)

When to Seek Help

Don’t wait to see if the disorder resolves itself. If you suspect that your child has a learning disability, get him or her tested. The sooner the problem is identified, the quicker your child can fulfill his or her potential.

The only “wrong” thing to do is wait. Frustration and failure erodes a child’s self-esteem, and knowing the reason behind the problem eases the mind and allows for a plan to be made to work around or combat the disorder.

school-aged children (ages 6 through 21) in the U.S. (5% of all school-aged children in public schools) are classified as having specific learning disabilities and receive some kind of special education support.

(U.S. Department of Education)

LEARNING DISABILITIES READING - DYSLEXIA Problems with letter and word recognition, understanding words and ideas, reading speed and fluency, and general vocabulary skills

MATH - DYSCALCULIA Problems with sequencing information, handling money, recognizing patterns, and understanding concepts related to time

AUDITORY AND VISUAL PROCESSING Problems with understanding and interpreting information taken in through the eyes or ears when eyesight and hearing abilities are normal

LANGUAGE DYSPHASIA/APHASIA Problems with understanding spoken language, reading comprehension, or fluency of speech

WRITING - DYSGRAPHIA Problems with physical difficulty of forming words and letters, neatness, accurately copying letters and words, spelling consistency, and writing organization 7

Two Healthy Recipes for Picky Eaters

Be Adventurous With Your Diet Written by: Alex Dunn

We all know picky eaters who thinks twice about their selection of food for their plate. While not necessarily a bad habit, it is a limiting one and can even be linked to more serious unhealthy eating habits, especially if it lasts into adulthood.

Whether it’s someone who can’t tolerate any type of seafood, even if they have never tried it, or someone who simply doesn’t like green veggies, picky eaters boil down to a lack of sense of adventure. Their unwillingness to try something new can affect any part of their lives, especially regarding food.

Picky eaters are typically found in children, but a plethora of things can affect a selective diet. According to Sarah DiGiulio of NBC News, parental guidance/control, social influences, and personality traits are factors that can result in children becoming picky eaters. But sometimes it’s just a kid being a kid; did you want to eat that slimy green stuff your parents called spinach when you were young? Yeah, didn’t think so.

The point is that food preferences when we’re young are normal and don’t usually last until adulthood; we grow up and incorporate healthier foods into our diets. But what happens when that carrot-hating phase doesn’t end?

According to an article written by Emily Dwass of the New York Times, there are many factors that can contribute to a lingering selective diet when we get older. One could be having a bad experience with the food, like choking on it when we were young. Some people even have a more heightened taste or smell sensitivity than others, making the food in question less desirable.

The American Psychiatric Association has a name for extreme cases when people shun most foods altogether: avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder. Some people with ARFID want to seek help because of the effects it can have on their social lives.

Dwass explained that the process of teaching someone to have a more diverse diet can be like rehabilitating an injury to the body. It takes a lot of practice and patience. They can also talk to someone about how to eat in public with their picky diet or how to explain their diet choices to others.

Picky eater can become stressed if you try to push foods on them, according to experts. Family members are usually accepting of their limitations, but they can find it uncomfortable to explain it to others. The best thing to do is not push foods on them to try: it won’t end well.

If you are a picky eater and want to develop a wider palate, there are many ways to do so. If you are someone who deals with a picky eater, try to understand their limitations instead of pushing news foods on them.

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Avocado Chicken Salad Ingredients:

Pre-cooked chicken 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt 1/2 an avocado Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Place chicken in bowl.

2. Cut avocado into small cubes before adding to chicken.

3. Add Greek yogurt, salt, and pepper.

4. Mix together and serve by itself or on toast.

Chocolate Milkshake Ingredients:

Ice 1 banana 1 cup milk (dairy, almond, or soy) 1 scoop chocolate protein powder 1 tablespoon cocoa powder, optional 1 pinch ground flax seed, optional

Instructions:

1. Add ice, banana, milk, protein powder, and cocoa powder to blender.

2. Blend well, adding ground flax seed on top for an extra boost of omega-3 fatty acids.

BEFORE

AFTER

Dermatology Care Thacker Dermatology Betsy Perry Thacker, MD, FAAD is a board certified dermatologist and Assistant Clinical Professor of Dermatology at Florida State University College of Medicine.

Business Hours: Monday-Thursday 8 a.m. - 5p.m.

Friday 8 a.m. - Noon Address: 4233 Camelot Crossing Valdosta GA 31602 Phone: (229)469-4383 Fax: (229)469-4584 Email: thackerderm@gmail.com Facebook: facebook.com/thackerderm Instagram: thackerderm

Get Your Glow On!

Written by: Betsy Perry Thacker, MD Images courtesy of Betsy Perry Thacker, MD

Facial aging can be divided into two categories: extrinsic (external) and intrinsic (innate and not modifiable).

External factors such as UV (sun/tanning beds), smoking, and other environmental pollutants cause discoloration, collagen degradation, and wrinkles. Chemical peels, topical retinoids, topical skin rejuvenation treatments like Defenage®, and lasers moderate and sometimes reverse this damage. However, even the healthiest of lifestyles cannot prevent the hormonal changes that cause fat redistribution and losses of skin elasticity, bone, and soft tissue, which lead to temporal hollowing, under eye circles, and development of jowls. For this, we need fillers.

Sculptra® Aesthetic (poly-L-lactic acid) is a biostimulatory filler that induces the body’s natural collagen production. It is made from non-GMO corn and beet sugars and breaks down into carbon dioxide and water. It is injected in a series of treatment sessions over several months, and the results can last for over two years, after which touch ups every 12-18 months are needed to maintain improvement. It is unique in that it can mimic bone, soft tissue, and fat, and the results are very gradual and natural looking. Sculptra® actually thickens the skin and improves skin quality, giving it a “Sculptra® glow.”

Our annual “Cosmetics and Cocktails” event is Oct. 18. Look for more details on our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram.

It is FDA-approved for the treatment of nasolabial folds and other facial lines, such as the cheeks and chin, but it is used safely “off-label” in the temples. It can even be used in the décolleté to improve the appearance of crepey skin and in the buttocks, either to give a fuller, more toned look or to help improve the appearance of cellulite. Unlike hyaluronic acid fillers (Restylane® and Juvederm® families), it is not reversible, and care should be taken to select an experienced and highly trained physician injector. It should not be used under the eyes, in the red part of the lips, or by women who are pregnant or nursing.

I specialize in “age appropriate restoration,” and my best work is noticeable but undetectable. When you want to look refreshed, not “done,” come visit me at Thacker Dermatology. Together, we can design a program that fits your budget, lifestyle, and goals.

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With summer coming to a close, you want to soak up all the vitamin C you can while lounging by the pool. But wait, something’s missing. The smell of the grill cooking. You don’t want another hamburger or hot dog, though, because the summer body you worked hard for is aching for something fresh and clean to recharge. That’s why it’s time to dust off those cookbooks for something new to eat.

Cooking on a grill has many health benefits. For example, you consume less fat when grilling because most of it drips off the grates Instead of pooling in a pan. Also, vegetables retain more of their nutrients when grilled, and fresh veggies are typically easier to grill, making it even healthier.

Believe it or not, anything can be grilled. The list isn’t limited to fatty or processed meats. Try lean meats, veggies, whole grain breads, and even fruits. Wherever you can, it’s always good to substitute something unhealthy for something more nutritious.

Having certain tools make grilling hassle free. Always have a brush handy before you start grilling. It makes it easy to take off leftover debris from the last barbeque. Investing in a meat thermometer is also a must when you need to know when the meat is actually done cooking.

Grilling helps keep you in the action. Instead up being cooped in a stuffy kitchen, you can play outside with your children and socialize with guests while your food cooks. Daylight savings time ends on Nov. 4, so there’s still time during the day to relax outside while your meat smokes. Sitting down as a family is great, but interacting and exercising before dinner creates a closer bond.

Need help deciding which grill is right for you? Visit The Pool Store in Valdosta at 3363 North Valdosta Rd. or in Thomasville at 1616 Smith Ave. Can’t stop in? Give them a call at (229)247-6440 (Valdosta) or (229)2271194 (Thomasville).

Grilling

The Benefits of

Written by: Julie Jernigan

Cilantro Lime Grilled Salmon

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Ingredients

Directions

Four 6-ounce salmon fillets Kosher salt Freshly ground black pepper 4 tablespoons butter 1/2 cup lime juice 1/4 cup honey 2 garlic cloves, minced 2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped

1. Heat grill. Season salmon with salt and pepper and place on grill flesh-side down.

Cook for 8 minutes, then flip and cook on other side until salmon is cooked through, 6 minutes more. Remove from grill and let rest 5 minutes.

2. While salmon is cooking, make sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add butter, lime juice, honey, and garlic. Stir until butter is melted and all ingredients are combined. Turn off heat and add cilantro.

3. After salmon has rested, poor sauce over salmon and serve.

Bringing you over 30 years of better backyards...

We've been providing service, supplies and accessories for pools/spas and backyards for 30 years. We carry and service Dimension One Spas, the top rated hydro-therapy spa. We carry a wide range of outdoor accessories like patio/lawn furniture and grills from companies like Seaside Casual & Big Green Egg. We carry a complete line of pool and spa chemicals for any situation that might arise.

The Pool Store

The Pool Store

The Pool Store

3363 North Valdosta Rd Valdosta, GA 31602 Phone: 229-247-6440 Fax: 229-247-6450 Email: sales@thepoolstore.net

1616 Smith Avenue Thomasville, GA 31792 Phone: 229-227-1194 Fax: 229-227-1196 Email: sales@thepoolstore.net 11

2 Brothers, 2 Tumors, 1 Battle

Written by: Joshua Miller and Anna Limoges | Photography by: Eric Vinson

Aaron and Andrew Eunice are two brothers from Cook County who are Christians, play sports, love the Georgia Bulldogs, and were both diagnosed with rare brain tumors within weeks of each other.

Craniopharyngioma is a benign brain tumor that begins near the pituitary gland and occurs more often in young children and older adults. The pituitary gland controls hormone production and output in the brain and body, meaning the tumor can have a myriad of effects on development and growth. In children, symptoms can include any combination of visual and auditory impairment, headaches, fatigue, and physical developmental delays.

Aaron, the older brother, is currently in seventh grade and was diagnosed when he was 10 years old.

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“Aaron was there to comfort him in ways his father and I could not. Aaron knew exactly how he was feeling and told him, ‘God’s got this, just as he’s got me.’ In that moment, they formed a bond like no other.”

— Katie Eunice

He initially showed no signs or symptoms until a routine eye exam when an optometrist noticed swollen optic nerves, something unusual to find in an otherwise healthy kid Aaron’s age.

“God’s got this,” Aaron said when he first learned about his diagnosis.

That response has been the entire family’s motto throughout the whole experience.

“Aaron has been very strong through everything,” Katie Eunice, their mother, said. “He did not complain one time when he was recovering from surgery or enduring proton radiation.”

Proton radiation is a type of radiation therapy that targets tumor cells while avoiding normal, healthy cells.

Andrew, younger than Aaron by two years, was diagnosed with craniopharyngioma just three weeks after Aaron’s diagnosis, unusual

not just because this type of tuBoth are fighting their own mor is rare, but also because it battles, as well as each other’s. isn’t typically hereditary. Andrew Their family travels to Jacksoninitially presented with delayed ville once a month for numergrowth. Further testing revealed ous doctor appointments. The low thyroid levels and delayed boys are followed closely by bone development. neurologists, endocrinologists, According to otolaryngologists, their mother, An- “The biggest ophthalmologists, drew didn’t take and more. the news as well change in our “The biggest as Aaron. Andrew family’s everyday change in our famwas quiet, worried, ily’s everyday life and scared at first, life is medicine.” is medicine,” Katie and Aaron un— Katie Eunice Eunice said. “Aarderstood his little on and Andrew brother needed him. both take morning and night “Aaron was there to commedicine. Andrew also has one fort him in ways his father and to two shots daily. Aaron takes I could not,” Katie Eunice said. thyroid medicine and a whole “Aaron knew exactly how he was regimen of vitamins. Andrew is feeling and told him, ‘God’s got on total hormone replacements. this, just as he’s got me.’ In that Since Andrew’s pituitary gland moment, they formed a bond is nonexistent, he has a rescue like no other.” shot if his body is ever under too Andrew’s tumor was in a pomuch stress.” sition that allowed 95 percent of Aaron and Andrew continue it to be removed through surto be strong through the progery, so he will not have to uncess and know they aren’t alone dergo radiation treatments like in this battle. They have tremenAaron. Andrew will, however, be dous support from their famimonitored via MRI scans every ly, God, and most importantly, three months for 2-3 years after each other. the surgery.

CRANIOPHARYNGIOMA accounts for approximately 6% of all brain tumors in children It is diagnosed most often between the ages of 5 and 14, but it is possible for a person of any age to be diagnosed with craniopharyngioma

— PHOTOGRAPHY —

The 5-year survival rate and 10-year survival rate for children with craniopharyngioma are higher than 90%.

Approximately 140 people under the age of 15 will be diagnosed with the disease this year.

General Symptoms:

Location-Specific Symptoms:

• Headaches, which may be severe and worse in the early morning • Nausea, vomiting • Difficulty with balance • Increased sleepiness or fatigue • Mood or behavior changes

• Vision changes, blurriness, or loss of peripheral vision • Excessive thirst • Increased urination • Slow or halted growth • Excessive weight gain • Early or delayed puberty

Information courtesy of cancer.net

Contact info: cevinson9216@gmail.com 229-412-1296 Eric Vinson

evdreamswild

Bringing health to your home.

Chickens For Seniors

We Accept: Medicare, Medicaid, Tricare & Most Private Insurances

Written by: Hillary Griffin

Therapy animals, also known as emotional support animals, can help improve a patient’s social, emotional, and mental function. Individuals often find comfort in these animals when they are unable to find comfort in anything or anyone else.

Dogs are commonly used as therapy animals because they are easy to train and have great instincts about themselves and their owners. Other animals can be used, but there are specific qualifications that a therapy animal must meet. First and most importantly is that they must be registered.

They have to be well tempered, cannot shed excessively, have to be well socialized and exposed to a plethora of environments, and should love to cheer others up. Animals that you are not likely to think of as therapy animals but actually make for great companions are chickens.

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Chickens are useful in yards and gardens because of their intelligence, but they also have a sense of emotional and social connection when interacting with humans.

They can help individuals who suffer from depression, anxiety, PTSD, autism, hypertension, dementia, and even generalized stress. They have to go through a series of trainings and evaluations when being screened.

Most people find Silikies, a special breed, appealing because Silkies are fuzzy, small, and resemble kittens, so they do not seem unfamiliar. They are also unable to fly because they do not have flight feathers, but they have also been raised to be pets.

Chickens are especially great therapy animals for senior citizens because they help reduce loneliness, assist them in staying calm, keep them rested, and

help them feel settled.

These chickens, or hens, help to combat loneliness and isolation. Isolation usually occurs more so in elderly males rather than females. Elderly men tend to isolate themselves and avoid social scenes and engaging activities, whereas elderly women are more likely to socialize. Hens have helped men to increase their sense of well-being.

Animals can be a great asset when it comes down to changing the lives of individuals who feel there is nothing to live for or who feel as though they are alone in the world. They give love, attention, and protection to their owners and those who care for them.

We Offer...

Oxygen Electric Wheelchairs CPAP/Bi-Level Sleep Therapy Nebulizers Hospital Beds Low Air Loss Therapy Canes & Walkers Rollators Manual Wheelchairs Standard & Rehabilitation Shower Chairs Tub Benches Commodes

136 N Patterson Street Valdosta, GA 31601 Phone (229) 257-0024 www.merchanthomemedicalservices.com

BULLETPROOF COFFEE ON THE RISE Written by: Hillary Griffin

It is rare to find someone who does not enjoy a cup of coffee in some form: iced, black, blended with flavored syrups, and even specialty coffee blends. A new coffee trend claims to boost mental power, suppress cravings, and increase your metabolism.

Bulletproof coffee, also known as butter coffee, was created by Dave Aspey, an entrepreneur from Albuquerque, New Mexico. The coffee was an additional aspect to the bulletproof diet he had previously created. This coffee is made with low-mold coffee beans; grass-fed, unsalted butter; and medium chain triglycerides.

Aspey claims that by having bulletproof coffee daily in conjunction with his bulletproof diet he was able to boost his IQ by 20 points while also losing weight through ketosis. According to him, bulletproof coffee does this by boosting the metabolism into overdrive and burning calories continuously throughout the day. Although not many scientific studies exist to back up his claims, many people who have had great success using Aspey’s bulletproof coffee testify to its effectiveness.

The butter in bulletproof coffee gives it a strong butter smell and a frothy foam like that of melted whipped cream on top of hot chocolate. This coffee has also been used as a breakfast meal replacement.

Bulletproof Coffee Recipe 1. Brew 1 cup of low-mold coffee beans.

2. Add 2 tablespoons of grass-fed, unsalted butter.

3. Add 1 tablespoon of MCT oil or coconut oil.

4. Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend until frothy.

5. Pour into a mug and enjoy!

Coffee Trends You Didn't Know Were a Thing Spiced Coffee Mushroom Infusions Sparkling Coffee

of coffee was consumed outside of the home in 2017.

Of all the coffee consumed, 59% was specialty versus 41% non-specialty.

Cold Brew Tonics H2O Revamp Cafe au Lait Bowls

Nitro Coffee Coffee on Tap Glitter Coffee

Over the last 18 years, the number of daily specialty drinkers has seen the strongest overall growth in the coffee market. Only 9% of U.S. adults were drinking specialty coffee daily in 1999. In 2017, that number hit

When broken down into single servings, specialty drinkers consumed

2.97 CUPS OF COFFEE PER DAY in 2017, an increase from 2.24 cups in 2001.

The number of drinkers has increased by 10% Information from National Coffee Assoc.

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Hospice of South Georgia Written by: Lindsey Rogers | Photography by: Micki K. Photography

Hospice Home-Care Team Hospice care came to Valdosta in 1987 when a small group of volunteers developed a passion and vision to bring comfort and dignity to life’s final journey. These individuals began this endeavor inside a janitor’s closet down in the basement of the hospital. As the good word of hospice spread through the community, Hospice of South Georgia blossomed to become the first hospice organization established in the area and outgrew that small closet into a full building of hired employees. With tremendous community support, the last 30 years have evolved by enhancing the hospice experience with patient-focused home care and elevated comfort measures at Langdale Hospice House, their hospice care center.

We focus on HOW YOU LIVE! Hospice serves individuals facing a life-limiting illness where curative treatments are no longer possible. This phase of care is a transition from treating the disease to treating the patient holistically, offering more commitment to how you live during this journey.

Services concentrate on the patient’s physical, emotional, and spiritual quality of life, giving focus and respect to the patient’s goals and wishes. As the majority of hospice patients wish to reside in their own homes with the comfort of family and friends, Hospice of South Georgia provides the bulk of its care in the home setting, but also serves in assisted living facilities and nursing homes, as well as residential care at the Langdale Hospice House. Hospice care is covered by Medicare, Medicaid, and most insurance companies.

Patients and families experience a full team of hospice support from multiple disciplines including a registered nurse, certified nursing assistant, social worker, chaplain, volunteer, and grief counselor. These professionals give compassionate, patient-focused attention through the entire journey of care.

Hospice of South Georgia 16

2263 Pineview Drive Valdosta, GA 31602

229-433-7000

hospiceofsouthgeorgia.org

“I absolutely adore everyone who works for Hospice of South Georgia and the Langdale Hospice House. My father was battling liver cancer when he moved to Valdosta, and we were referred to Hospice of South Georgia, and everyone was great, caring, understanding, and very friendly. During my father’s final days, he stayed at the Langdale Hospice House, where he passed away.

All of the nurses were wonderful and compassionate. My daughter and I still to this day, almost a year after his passing, have a relationship with some of the employees there. I call them our angels.”

- Jessica Wynne, Quitman, GA

“When hospice would visit my dad, it would lift his spirits.

When his hospice team makes a visit, he comes alive!”

- Jennifer Gillard, Valdosta, GA

RN Case Manager “It is a privilege for me to be involved in my patient’s life and provide compassionate care to people at the end of life.”

– Joseph Dollar, RN • Works with patients to create a plan of physical comfort care unique to their needs and goals.

• Helps educate both patients and caregivers on medications, medical equipment, symptom management, and symptoms of different stages through the disease process • Makes home visits to continually monitor patient’s needs and symptoms

Certified Nursing Assistant "I like what I do because God has graced me as a vital member of the daily operational team at Hospice of South Georgia, providing compassionate and skilled patient care that helps to lessen the stress and fear of the patients and their loved ones."

- Teresa Pope, CNA • Makes requested visits for personal care including bathes, changing linens, shifting or rotating patients in the bed, transporting them to and from areas in residential setting, and assisting in motion exercises • Observes and addresses patient needs • Provides loving emotional support

Social Worker “It’s more than just work; it’s service! It’s an honor to serve others with compassion and dignity during challenging times.”

- Keisha Hilliard, LMSW • Advocates for patients’ well-being • Coordinates home visits to provide emotional support and counseling • Addresses patients’ concerns • Educates and helps patients and families regarding safety measures in the home • Helps with end-of-life planning, connections with community resources, and legal matters • Provides medical support

Chaplain “The heart of spiritual care at the end of life is offering a sustaining presence through compassion and grace.”

– Jeff May, Chaplain • Provides spiritual and emotional counseling, helping to lead patients and families toward peace during their journeys • Offers a loving presence, addressing spiritual concerns at the end of life • Collaborates with patients’ established spiritual support

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Volunteer “When Jesus fills you up with so much love, mercy, and grace, you can’t just sit on it! We are commanded to go into the world.”

– Debbie Sturgill, Volunteer • While volunteers help hospice in many ways, those who volunteer in patient care sit with patients for companionship, write letters, run errands, provide different therapies, and assist with nonmedical patient needs.

Grief Coordinator “As bereavement coordinator, I appreciate the opportunity to support the loved ones of our hospice patients and people within our community who have lost someone precious to them. Bereavement support emphasizes that healing from loss is a journey, which is unique to each person.”

– Sherry Tierney, LMSW

• Offers support for caregivers and families in the grieving process up to one year after a loved one’s passing • Provides one-on-one counseling • Provides 6-week adult support groups • Runs children’s grief camps • Organizes the Angel Tree Memorial Service, an annual memorial ceremony to honor a loved one

Leadership Team:

“I cannot say enough wonderful things about Hospice of South Georgia. I am able to truly say the death of my beloved husband was ‘peaceful’ because of the care and compassion we received from Hospice of South Georgia.

I was able to keep my husband at home where he and I want him to be. I will never forget the care and concern expressed

by Hospice of South Georgia. The ongoing support offered through the bereavement program of Hospice of South Georgia has helped me through the difficult days after his death.”

- Maureen, Valdosta, GA

(left to right) Bill Meli- Volunteers, Facilities, Tree House Thrift Shop, Margaret O'Berry- Nurse Manager at Langdale Hospice House, Susan Bowden- Executive Director, Amanda Mason- Clinical Support Services, Admissions, Kevin Moore- Home-care Nurse Manager.

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Langdale Hospice House Nestled in a quiet, pine-filled neighborhood, the Langdale Hospice House was designed to give patients and families the comforts of home. Lots of windows and sunrooms allow for natural lighting, and a rustic fireplace in the living room area promotes relaxation in a comfortable, peaceful environment. Patients receive ultimate privacy with their own rooms and bathrooms, enhancing the ability to provide skillful medical care, security, and positive quality of life.

The Langdale Hospice House serves as an extension of services for Hospice of South Georgia’s home-care patients. It provides an elevated level of care unlike any other in the Valdosta community.

• Clinical symptom management is acute care for when a patient’s symptoms cannot be managed in the home. It serves as a doctor’s visit in hospice care and keeps patients out of the ER. • Ability to treat any disease process with management and assessment by a skilled nursing staff • 24/7, hospice-centered care • Specialized wound care • Ability to administer all medications • All private rooms and bathrooms • Respite for caregivers • Residential Stay

“Hospice of South Georgia is deeply rooted in the heart of the communities we serve. It is an honor to be welcomed into a patient’s personal home, build a trusting relationship, and care for them in this final season. Patients and families will always be the center of our care, and it is our commitment at Hospice of South Georgia and Langdale Hospice House to remain dedicated to optimizing quality of life.”

– Susan Bowden, Executive Director

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So Sweet, but Ow! My Teeth!

Written by: Bryce Ethridge

Cavities cause pain when eating or drinking something cold, but how do they start? A commonly thought answer is sugar, but that’s not the real reason. According to Carifree, sugar is not what causes tooth decay; cavity-causing bacteria is, while sugar is just the fuel.

The larger your consumption of sugar, the more enamel demineralizing acid that bacteria spews out. These bacteria are not much of an issue for those with a low bacteria count, but the only way to know your bacteria count is to see a dentist and test for it. Your dentist may give you ways to decrease the bacteria, but more often than not, they’ll tell you to stop eating so much sugar. Here’s how to decrease cavities without having to give up your favorite desserts:

1. Choose Wisely

Not all sweets are the same caliber. Candies that slowly dissolves, are sticky, or contain added acids can cause more damage to teeth. Long-term exposure can quicken the decaying process, so choose an alternative. For instance, chewy fruit candies have citric acid, so choosing chocolate may be the better decision. Even if you decide to eat candy with added acids, try to keep consumption low.

2. Forget About Acid

Soda, fruit drinks, and sports drinks all contain large amounts of sugar and acid. Drinking these often is like allowing someone to constantly punch your teeth, so minimize your time drinking them. Doing so will help avoid acid erosion and create a healthier smile. Large consumption of these drinks can lead to rough, chalky-looking teeth. Regulate your time with these drinks by only drinking them during meals, and you must absolutely never sip. Those small sips are the death of a beautiful smile.

3. Watch Your pH Levels

One of the best ways to eat sugar and maintain a healthy smile is to keep your pH levels in check. Your pH level is the measure of acidity or alkalinity in your body on a scale of 0 to 14. A pH of 7 is neutral and where you want to be. Cut back on acidic foods, and eat alkaline-producing foods like fruits and veggies. Also, drink plenty of water.

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pH Balancing Mixture Ingredients

2 tablespoons lime or lemon juice 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 8-12 ounces water

Directions

1. In a cup, mix lime/lemon juice with baking soda in a cup. Foam will form.

2. After foaming stops, add water and drink.

PROS AND CONS OF GOAT YOGA Written by: Hope Hathcock | Photography courtesy of Kathryn Weller

Goat yoga is your typical yoga class with the slight exception that a dozen baby goats are free to roam not only around the room but also all over you. And, yes, this is real.

Unconventional Yoga Classes to Try 1) Aerial Yoga 2) Glow in the Dark Yoga 3) Partner Yoga 4) Foodie Yoga 5) Heavy Metal Yoga

Pros Instant Stress Reliever:

Human-animal interaction releases oxytocin, a hormone that reduces stress and induces feelings of happiness. Additionally, goats are carefree, kind animals that make not smiling impossible. Combine that with yoga, and you can kiss any anxiety you’ve been feeling goodbye.

Health Benefits:

Petting and playing with animals boosts your brain’s levels of serotonin and dopamine, hormones responsible for impulse control and mood moderation. Moreover, the combination of interacting with animals with a yoga class lowers the body’s blood pressure and improves lipid profiles.

Pushes You Outside Your Comfort Zone:

Of course, you may not be comfortable with the concept of goats hopping onto your back while you’re mid-downward dog, but this easy activity gives you the perfect opportunity to branch out and do something you normally wouldn’t even think of.

Try Something New:

How can you not be excited to try goat yoga? Like tasting new food for the first time, experimenting with unfamiliar territory is stimulating. Testing out a class presents you with the chance to spice up your week, and if it turns out that goat yoga isn’t for you, at least you have a good story to tell.

Cons Causes Distractions:

Focusing is nearly impossible when you have a dozen tiny animals constantly prancing around and jumping on your body, so if you’re looking forward to an absolutely serene and silent class, this type of yoga isn’t ideal.

Not a Workout:

Similarly, it won’t be the most physically demanding since the atmosphere is more light-hearted than your typical, intense hot yoga class. Rather than strengthening your core through balance, you’ll be tightening those ab muscles through laughing.

Not for Animal Lover:

If you’re not a fan of fur, hair, and pets, don’t let your friend talk you into this one. Goats are friendly animals that love attention, so they will regularly rub up against you, and if you aren’t gungho about animals, then you most likely won’t enjoy yourself.

Watch Where You Step:

You’re outside with the fresh air, you’re surrounded by baby animals, and you’re getting in touch with your, mind, body, and soul. This setting gives you the perfect break to clear your mind. What could be more peaceful and rejuvenating?

Fair warning: This class definitely requires you to look before you put your hands down. Naturally, goats are living, breathing creatures that have to go when they have to go. If you’re not willing to look past the animals’ inevitable bodily functions, then go ahead and pass on this one.

Sure, goat yoga doesn’t work miracles or cure diseases, but it certainly helps people manage. As Lainey Morse, one of the original class instructors, said, "One lady had stage 4 cancer and said nothing had helped her heal more than goat yoga.”

Likewise, it is not recommended to use your own yoga mat due to possibilities such as those mentioned above. Depending on the yoga studio, you might have to give up your attachment to your go-to mat or even rent one.

Connect With Nature:

Coping Mechanism:

Don’t Use Your Own Mat:

IG Pics:

Goat Safety:

Let’s be real. The majority of people who sign up are doing it for the killer picture that they can post on Instagram later because who doesn’t like the blend of baby goats and yoga on their feed? Join the trend!

The well being of these baby animals is still in question since accidents do happen. The Department of Health has refused to issue permits to some studios for the safety of both the goats and humans.

K9 Fit Club is a company dedicated to creating good health, fitness, and wellness of dogs and their owners. It offers over 20 unique workout programs designed for not only you but also your dog. Such classes include PUPilates, NamaSitStay, Bark and Bun, and Bow Wow Bootcamp.

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Challenge

Yourself With Spartan Races Written by: Alex Dunn | Images courtesy of Caleb Shelnutt

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Obstacle course racing requires competitors to run, climb, and leap over physical barriers to make it to the finish line. One of the most popular and well known obstacle course races out there are Spartan races, which range in difficulty and distance depending on the course.

Obstacle courses are no joke, especially if you want to be one of the top competitors. Training for one is fairly simple, as long as you give yourself enough time in advance to do so and have good motivation.

Here are a few suggestions on how to train for your next race:

Step 1:

Step 2:

Step 3:

Assess where you are physically capable, then decided where you want to end up at the end of your training. Figure out your fitness goals and how far of a race you will be doing.

In order to train properly, you should allow yourself 12-16 weeks to prepare for the race if you are new to it, according to Jason Fitzgerald of Art of Manliness. However, if you are an active obstacle racer, then you should only need 6-8 weeks.

Make sure to build a well-rounded workout routine paired with lots of running. The main aspect of obstacle racing is running, so having a high endurance is key. Completing various workouts that target different areas of the body will increase overall strength, which will also be necessary in the race.

Spartan races have different categories that vary in difficulty and length. Here are the different types of races and the criteria for each.

Sprint: This race consists of 3-5 miles with 20-23 obstacles in between. It is great for new and experienced racers.

Super: This one has 8-10 miles that tests speed and endurance, with 24-29 obstacles in between. This race is good for people who want to enhance their athleticism and endurance.

Beast: This race has 30-35 obstacles spread out between 1214 miles. It will test mental and physical endurance.

Ultra: This is one of the tough ones, coming in at over 60 obstacles in a span of 30 miles. This race is only for the well trained and brave athletes.

Kids: Even the kids can have fun in this ½-, 1-, two-mile course. The family can even watch for free.

Obstacle course races are offered all over the world and are usually pre-planned and scheduled a year in advance. Spartan races are being held in the Atlanta, Georgia, area this October and in spring of next year.

If you are interested in challenging your body and promoting your overall health, obstacle races might be the thing to try.

Just know your limits and have fun.

Endurance: The distance changes with each event type, but it is meant to challenge limits and fuel competition.

Workout to Prepare for an Obstacle Course Race:

Spartan Races in Georgia and Florida

Courtesy of spartan.com

Courtesy of spartan.com

Always start your exercise with 10-20 minutes of easy running and end with 10 minutes of easy running. Perform each exercise three times.

Atlanta Sprint and Super Weekend

• 10-20 bodyweight squats • 10-20 push-ups.

• 10-20 walking lunges • 1-minute plank • 2-8 pull-ups • 1-minute side plank for each side • 20-30 burpees

You should also add running in between each of these exercises to build endurance.

Where: Georgia Int, Horse Park – Steeplechase Area Conyers, GA When: 10/27/18 Type of race: sprint, super, kids

Jacksonville Super and Sprint Weekend

Where: Diamond D Ranch, Jacksonville, FL When: 2/23/19 Type of race: super, sprint, kids

Atlanta Sprint Where: TBD When: 4/13/19 Type of race: sprint, kids 23

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MEDICAL GUIDE

Don’t Just Deal With Sciatica Pain Written by: Julie Jernigan

Sciatic nerve pain can be pretty brutal.

Sometimes it feels like a burning rope running along your lower back to your foot or like a razor digging in with even the slightest movements. While the level and type of pain people suffer varies, sciatic nerve pain is typically continual, meaning there is little to no relief from pain throughout the course of each day.

According to Harvard Medical School, 40 percent of people experience some type of sciatic nerve pain.

Sciatica refers to the pain across the sciatic nerve that travels from the lower back to the hips, butt, and down each leg. The Mayo Clinic cites symptoms such as a mild ache to sharp burning sensations, a jolt or electric shock when sneezing or coughing, numbness, tingling, or muscle weakness in the legs or feet. Remember to talk to your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms.

Commonly, sciatica occurs when a herniated disc compresses part of a nerve.

Hopkins Medicine cites spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis, bone spurs, or tumors as other possible causes. Like everything when aging, discs weaken over time, especially after years of bending or having a profes-

Stretches 1. Reclining pigeon pose 2. Sitting pigeon pose 3. Forward pigeon pose 4. Knee to opposite shoulder 5. Sitting spinal stretch 6. Standing hamstring stretch

sion where you sit at a computer all day. That cubical can be dangerous after all, huh?

While most cases are mild and will clear up in a few weeks, others require surgery when the sciatic episodes happen more frequently.

Treatment includes taking medications such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen to help with pain and swelling. Using an ice pack throughout the day can also minimize discomfort. Steroid pills and injections may be an option, but researchers at the Journal of the American Medical Association recently discovered that people who took them experienced little if any improvement.

To avoid sciatica, the Mayo Clinic suggests daily exercises involving core muscles (abdomen and lower back). Practicing better posture can eliminate episodes. Incorporating stretches in your morning routine or practicing yoga can also strengthen your spine. Yoga can strengthen you mentally as well. Taking time to just focus on your breathing and shut out all distractions can improve your overall health.

When the pain has not subsided, made it difficult to do

daily activities, interfered with regular bowel movements, or caused muscle weakness, then surgery is the best option according to the Laser Spine Institute. In the surgery, only the part of the herniated disc that is pinching the nerve is removed.

No one should just live with sciatic nerve pain. Incorporating small changes into your daily schedule can eliminate symptoms.

There’s also no shame in asking for help when the pain becomes unbearable. Always remember to talk to your doctor when common practices fail.

Information courtesy of Healthline.com

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180-Degree Turn on Life Written by: Alex Dunn

The Sterling Bariatric Cenle my health head-on.” ter in Moultrie, Georgia, esCardiac issues were not the sentially reshapes individual’s only health problems on Cavlives through gastric sleeve in’s plate, however. He was on surgery in which a majority of medications for blood pressure, the stomach is surgically cut swelling, and arrhythmia. He and removed. Matthew Cavin, a was pre-diabetic, suffered from 32-year-old systems administraarthritis and joint pain, and also tor at Colquitt Regional Medical had plantar fasciitis that preCenter, was one of those indivented him from even walking viduals whose life was changed some mornings. At that point by the decision to do the proceCavin was taking up to 17 pills dure. Dr. Howa day to combat ard Melton was these issues, and “At 30 years old, after the physician that’s excluding on the case, years of neglecting my daily vitamins. and Cavin had health, it caught up After deciding no doubts of he wanted the with me with cardiac where he wantgastric sleeve surissues that basically had ed his surgery gery, Cavin’s next me hospitalized for five done. step was to meet “I work with with a dietician months. Once I got on the physicians and have a psythe other side of that, of Sterling Barchological evaluI decided I needed to iatrics day in ation in order to and day out and tackle my health head-on.” meet the health trust Dr. Melton — Matthew Cavin qualifications for whole heartily,” the procedure. he said. “I have seen his dedicaOnce those were completed, tion to his patients and quality he was able to meet with Dr. of care.”

Melton to discuss and schedule Because of his rising health the surgery for January of 2017. issues, Cavin did not have much Cavin had the usual worries of a choice when it came to ulfor a major surgery. timately deciding how to best “Obviously there is always treat his weight problem. the worries and concerns for “At 30 years old, after years of anyone who’s about to have a neglecting my health, it caught major organ in their body mostup with me with cardiac issues ly removed,” he said. “It’s a bit that basically had me hospitalscary to think about in those ized for five months,” Cavin said. terms. I also went through the “Once I got on the other side of irrational fears of ‘Oh, man, I that, I decided I needed to tackwon’t be able to eat *insert food

here* again.’ It’s amazing how or swelling. His blood pressure as an obese individual my body and sugar are at normal levels. was so focused mentally on His joints no longer hurt, and his food even though I didn’t really painful plantar fasciitis is gone. realize I was.”

Cavin now runs an entire While the surgery itself tower of stairs multiple times sounds pretty tough, the recova day. Even more impressive is ery process can be considered that eight months after his initial even tougher. There are strict surgery he ran a 5K. dietary restrictions that have to “I am healthy for the first time be kept in order for the surgery in my adult life,” he said. “I am acto be successful. This includes tive, I am eating great, and I am one week of clear liquids, one loving life.” week of full liquids, one week of Starting out at 470 pounds, pureed, one week of soft foods, Cavin weighs 220 pounds toand then on to low carb foods. day. It is safe to say that the Cavin’s recovery took eight gastric sleeve did a 180-degree weeks compared to the usual turn on his life. five because he wanted to en“This surgery literally gave sure that these dietary restricme my life back,” he said. “Eightions had the best effect possiteen months later, 250 pounds ble on his body and mind. later, and two surgeries to re“I used this as my opportunimove a ridiculous amount of ty to completely reprogram my skin, I am finally learning to love way of thinking, eating, and the myself again. I am building conmental addiction to food that I fidence and self-esteem. Don’t had to break for waste your life myself to feel being unhappy. like I could be "Now all I do is look I spent literally successful,” he back and ask why I didn’t my entire adult said. life obese and look at this sooner. Life After those unhappy.

Now is short; it’s even shorter initial eight all I do is look weeks, Cav- when you are fat.” back and ask why in was able to — Matthew Cavin I didn’t look at completely this sooner. Life break those mental food adis short; it’s even shorter when dictions and embrace a new you are fat.” lifestyle of clean, healthy eating.

He now sticks to a mixture of keto and Mediterranean diets.

He is no longer taking medication for cardiac issues, arthritis,

4 Stages of Post-Surgery Diet Clear Liquids with Protein

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Introduce Pureed Food

Introduce Soft Food

Introduce Low Carb, Low Fat, Low Sugar, and High Protein

After

Before

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Although it may seem like a complex network of tapes that can go any which way on the body, the application of kinesiology tape can be pretty straightforward.

Steps provided by theratape.com

STEP 1:

Prepare the muscle for the tape by stretching it to the max. Make sure to allow enough time for the injured area to be properly stretched out. After this the area should remain in that position for the duration of the tape application.

STEP 2:

Keep Going With Kinesio Taping Written by: Alex Dunn

Kinesiology tape is an alternative rehabilitative technique for strained or achy muscles associated with high levels of physical activity. Also known as elastic therapeutic tape, this method expedites natural healing of the body while simultaneously providing support to the area and maintaining a wide range of motion.

Common brands, like Kinesio Tape, are latex-free and can be worn for multiple days. According to the company’s website, this form of healing can alleviate pain and facilitate lymphatic drainage by lifting the skin microscopically, which allows a decrease in inflammation in the affected area.

For the tape to be applied correctly and to successfully benefit the patient, a full clinical evaluation is needed to decide the best application method. This includes muscle, range of motion, and gait testing. The company goes on to describe that the tape can be placed on the body in hundreds of ways.

Optimizing performance, reducing pain and inflammation, promoting circulation, and preventing further injury are only a few benefits that kinesiology tape offers the body. It is basically trying to return the body back to complete homeostasis, according to the company’s website.

According to a tape expert of TheraTape, kinesiology tape is not recommended for treating serious injuries because of the elastic quality of the tape, and of course it will not provide enough structure to stabilize something like a broken bone.

Place the decompression strips over the most painful areas. Depending on the location, the tape can be placed horizontally or vertically. Ensure that the strip is also fully stretched out before applying it to the area.

STEP 3:

Apply stabilizing strips around the boundary of the wrapped area. This is meant to provide the support for the injured area and still provide a full range of motion.

Whether treating a sprain or pulled muscle, it is important during recovery to keep the injured body part lithe while still providing support. This combination allows the best method of healing. Kinesiology taping can provide that method of healing. Remember that any form of taping is not recommended for serious injuries, but can be excellent in helping heal and alleviate pain from a common injury from physical activities.

Tapes can be found in your local stores or online.

Do your research on what brand and types of tape you need for the area of pain before anything else.

Taping Patterns for Different Areas of the Body Back: • Two lines of tape going down both sides of the spine • An X pattern at the base of the spine • An H going up the length of the spine • An upside down V shape starting at the nape of the neck and ending at the shoulder blades

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Stomach: • Two bands of tape going up either side of the abdominal wall • A V shape going up the side of the body

Legs: • A taped circle surrounding the knee that continues up the front of the thigh • A V shape that starts behind the knee and continues up to end on the sides of the thigh

Arms: • X shapes on the forearms and biceps • One band going up the length of the entire arm or upper/lower • Tape an oval shape around the shoulder

SUP Yoga Poses

Say SUP to Stand Up Paddleboarding

Child's Pose

Written by: Julie Jernigan

For those who wish they had the agility and patience for surfing, fret not. The rapidly growing sport of stand up paddleboarding may be for you. Although standing up while paddling can be traced back thousands of years, the actual sport gained attention about 10 years ago, according to SUP World Mag. The origins may be a little hazy, with people citing a famous surfer and even the whole state of Hawaii, but one thing is for sure: The sport is here to stay.

What Exactly Is SUP?

Getting Started

Physical Benefits

Mental Benefits

Basically, SUP is a cross between canoeing and surfing, and it uses a surf style board with a long paddle. It requires little instruction before the user can begin paddling to his or her content. Like surfing, it involves a level of balance, so practicing a few minutes before is helpful. Sart off in kneedeep water and try pulling yourself to a standing position. To maintain balance, keep your feet hip-width apart with your knees slightly bent and toes forward. Remember to keep your posture straight and avoid looking at your feet.

While this sport may seem minimal in nature, it does require certain gear. If you’re not ready to commit to the whole experience, then renting is your best option. If you live in a town or are vacationing in an area where there is a body of water, then the local kayak or surf shop should be able to help. When buying, choose a board based on your skill level and weight, according to International Surf Ventures. Your paddle must reach your wrist when standing it up. Also, per Coast Guard regulations, the paddleboarder must have a personal flotation device with a whistle to warn other boaters when surfing past the shore.

SUP is a total body workout. It engages your core muscles (abdomen and lower back), legs, arms, and upper back while paddling. The faster you paddle, the more calories you burn. Just leisurely paddling easily burns 300 calories per hour, according to SUP World Mag. This is also a low-impact workout for those who need to be kinder to their joints.

Overall, if you’re looking for a fun workout, SUP is a perfect contender.

Nothing is better than being out in the open water with the wind in your hair and the sun shining down. Just being out in nature, taking in all it has to offer, is enough to raise anyone’s serotonin levels. If you want to take your relaxation to the next level, then practicing yoga while out on a surf is the next step.

Focus on your breathing while incorporating basic yoga poses such as the cobra pose, child’s pose, or easy pose.

Stand up paddleboarding is the whole package when it comes to living a happy and healthy life. It is a workout for anyone, not matter the age or skill level.

Cobra Pose

Easy Sitting Pose

CalorieBurning Activities Calories Burned Activity Per Hour SUP, Leisurely Pace 305-430 SUP, 3 mph 615-708 Surfing 412 Biking 483 Running 650 Swimming 840

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Mental Health as a Creative Written by: Diamante Hewitt

When offering perspectives on the downfall of unsung artists and creatives who abandoned their passions for long periods of time, the public is usually told that drugs or mental illness caused these people such difficulties. However, while drug users are usually revered and respected for admitting to their problems, many will shun and shame those who admit to having a mental illness outside of depression or anxiety. It seems that the multifaceted threat of mental illness is never taken as seriously, but in many situations for entertainers and artists, illnesses like depression can come about from a lack of support or positive reception.

While we may not know how much our treatment of today’s prominent celebrities can affect their mental health, we do understand how we feel when disappointed or disappointing others. Now, imagine that the thing you want to do most is what disappoints others or doesn’t earn you any support. Some people face that reality every day, and someone you know may be struggling with those same obstacles.

If you really want to show the artists or creatives around you that you appreciate the unique perspective they offer the world, take the time to check in with them emotionally.

Oftentimes, it is assumed that as long as the artist can do what they love, they will be happy, but there are so many more elements of creativity that we aren’t aware of. While art can offer an escape from the world, it doesn’t compare to a shoulder to cry on, a friend to laugh with, or a friend to confide in.

If your artist friend has products that they sell from their passion, support them by purchasing from their storefront.

Don’t worry about how much you paid; simply buying (and actually using) what you bought from your friend is a statement of support.

Things to Remember as an Artist • You are not alone in your experiences.

• The people who do not support your work are not relevant to the success of your work.

• It is okay to not be okay; the emotional spectrum includes a multitude of negative feelings, and none of them are wrong to feel.

• Find a trusted friend, mentor, or role model to talk about how you feel if you need to.

• There is nothing wrong with the path you have chosen. It takes courage to constantly expose your work to the world, and you are now part of a unique group that will influence and inspire the world in ways few can. Be proud of that quality

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Is

Written by: Hope Hathcock

Real?

Wake up and check your phone. Eat a meal and check your phone. Get in bed and check your phone. Sound familiar? This endless cycle is known as FOMO, or the fear of missing out. The term was added to the Oxford English Dictionary in 2013, and TIME Magazine describes it as “the uneasy and sometimes all-consuming feeling that you are missing out – that your peers are doing, in the know about, or in possession of more or something better than you.”

FOMO stems from low levels of satisfaction and from the fundamental needs for competence, autonomy, and relatedness. Between wondering if everyone else is having more fun than you and not feeling great, you turn to social media to make yourself feel better, except checking Instagram and Facebook actually makes you feel worse. This sensation of missing out is the driving force behind social media addiction, for FOMO compels you to check your feed again and again in order to not feel left out of the loop.

Rather than displaying the full picture of people’s lives, social media only depicts the cherry-picked version; social media is not real life. This is where so many individuals fall trap to humanity’s deceiving game of perfection. In this cyclic pattern, we post to make ourselves feel better, which has the potential to make anyone else who sees it feel worse. Social comparison is destructive; repeatedly comparing your life to others’ lives that appear better leads to a negative emotional state and mentality. Those with FOMO pay less attention in school and are more likely to check their phones while driving. Attaining happiness is achievable, but people struggle when they wish to be happier than others since everyone presumes people to be happier than they are.

The condition is a form of social anxiety since individuals become apprehensive over missing out on bonding time with their social group. Social anxiety never disappears completely, but steps can be taken to improve mentality and focus on the characteristics of life that genuinely matter. Altering your state of mind can be achieved without any outside help.

Firstly, you must look inward. One tactic is to take the time to list the everyday people, objects, and activities you take for granted and image living without them. Mentally subtracting cherished qualities of life makes you appreciate them more. By focusing on the good, you will feel good.

Another approach is to come face-to-face with your FOMO; admit you have it. Consequently, you can purposely choose to turn off your phone and learn to go through your morning and nightly routines without constantly checking it.

Do not allow your FOMO to control you. You may end up missing out on your own life.

According to the Royal Society for Public Health survey of 1,500 teens and young adults, Instagram is the worst social media network for mental health and wellbeing. Out of the five social networks included in the survey, YouTube received the highest marks for health and wellbeing and was the only site that received a positive net score. Twitter came in second, followed by Facebook, Snapchat, and then Instagram in last.

Technology Management Strategies: Don’t allow cell phones at the dinner table Unplug or take a digital detox periodically Don’t allow devices during family time Don’t allow devices during time with friends Turn off notifications for social media apps Limit time spent watching TV each day

Year Launched 2002 LinkedIn, Friendster 2003 Blackberry Quark, Myspace 2004 Facebook, Flickr 2005 YouTube, Reddit 2006 Twitter 2007 iPhone, Tumblr 2007 Android OS/device 2009 WhatsApp 2010 iPad, Pinterest, Instagram 2011 Snapchat, Google+ 31

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