Living + Wellness

One in seven children in Oklahoma County will experience abuse. This April, The CARE Center ‘s annual Paint the Town Blue campaign returns to raise awareness and promote prevention.

From blue-lit landmarks to themed treats at local restaurants, the campaign encourages Oklahomans to wear blue, support fundraising events and speak up for child abuse survivors. Participating businesses include Stella Nova, Hurts Donuts, The Jones Assembly, Café Kacao, Tiff’s Treats, Main Event and more. Oklahomans are invited to snap a photo in blue and tag @carecenterok to show support.

Learn more and view the full event calendar for April at carecenter-okc.org/paint-the-town-blue .

– Staff Report, The Oklahoma 100

As devastating wildfires continue to impact California, many residents have been forced to evacuate, leaving behind homes and belongings. Communities nationwide are stepping up to provide relief, and you can help too. Donations to organizations such as the American Red Cross, California Community Foundation Wildfire Recovery Fund and Direct Relief provide essential aid, including shelter, food and medical supplies.

Local food banks and animal shelters are also in need of support, with displaced families and pets relying on their services. Your efforts, through monetary contributions, supply donations or volunteering, can bring hope and relief to those affected by this crisis.

– Abby Watkins, 360 Media, Inc., The Atlanta 100

Late winter is the perfect time to begin preparing your garden for the upcoming growing season:

1. Begin by clearing away winter debris and dead plants.

2. Prune your trees and shrubs to promote strong, healthy growth.

3. Test your soil and enrich it with compost or organic fertilizers if necessary.

4. Early spring is ideal for planting cool-season vegetables like radishes, onions and potatoes, while warm-season crops such as tomatoes and peppers can be planted later.

5. Add a layer of mulch around your plants to conserve moisture and prevent weeds.

These simple tasks will help ensure your garden thrives during spring and summer.

– Rebecca Hastings, The 100 Companies

There is nothing like a trip to the emergency vet to spoil the festivities. Unfortunately, many holiday traditions can make home sweet home a danger zone for pets.

To ensure four-legged friends remain safe this season, follow these tips:

Decorate carefully with seasonal flowers and greenery, including poinsettias, holly, mistletoe and many varieties of lilies – these are toxic to cats and dogs.

Keep lights, wires, batteries and ornaments out of reach, and skip the tinsel altogether.

Trash cans should be secured, and plates and cocktail glasses kept away from pets. Many human foods, and alcohol, can make pets seriously sick.

– Laura Cubbage, 360 Media, Inc., The Atlanta 100

Feeling lonely at work?

For years we’ve blamed the problem on the pandemic leading us to remote work, but a new study says that’s not the case. And the cure isn’t RTO.

It doesn’t matter whether we work from home or go into the office, the loneliness epidemic is affecting us all. Maintaining a work-life balance is helpful, as is connecting with other employees. Whether it’s a group lunch, setting aside time to chitchat or even organized happy hours, the cure for a happier, healthier workforce is in reach. Start small and make it simple.

Read more at HBR.org.

– Vikki Locke, C2 Communications, The SWFL 100

Flu season is here, but don’t let it spoil your fun! Health experts urge everyone to arm themselves with the best defense: the flu shot. It’s quick, easy and a great way to dodge those nasty symptoms.

Want to stay ahead of the flu? Here are some tips:

• Get vaccinated – The flu shot is your first line of defense.

• Wash your hands often to keep germs at bay.

• Boost your immune system with plenty of sleep, water, vitamins and healthy foods.

• Avoid close contact with people showing flu symptoms.

Don’t wait – roll up your sleeve and stay healthy this season!

– Abby Watkins, 360 Media, Inc., The Atlanta 100

As International Self-Care Day approaches on July 24, it’s crucial to reflect on the importance of self-care in our increasingly hectic lives:

• Start with a digital detox to refresh the mind by unplugging from screens.

• Incorporate mindfulness practices like meditation and yoga to reduce stress and enhance mental clarity.

• Prioritize sleep by establishing a consistent bedtime routine, ensuring a restful environment.

• Nourish the body with a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables and hydration.

• Remember to engage in activities that bring joy, whether it’s reading, gardening or a hobby.

Self-care isn’t selfish; it’s essential for a balanced and healthy life.

– Abby Watkins, 360 Media, Inc., The Atlanta 100

Savvy pet owners know summer’s heat is no joke and can do a number on their four-legged friends. Despite these tips being second nature to many, remember to:

• Provide ample fresh, cool water to keep dehydration at bay.

• Limit outdoor exposure to shady areas that are well-ventilated.

• Avoid cars at all costs, unless absolutely necessary, and never leave pets unattended.

• Keep exotic pet cages out of direct sunlight.

• Stay indoors when temps rise above 85℉.

While heat stroke presents differently among species, listlessness, excessive panting and rapid breathing are always signs that something is amiss and should be addressed immediately.

– Hannah Van Sickle, The Arizona 100

Albert Einstein said, “Life is like a bicycle. To keep your balance, you must keep moving.” A new study by National Institutes of Health indicates that riding a bike may lead to living longer.

The research, published in Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, focused on 2,600 men and women between the ages of 40-80 and found that bikers are less likely to develop osteoarthritis and knee pain. In a recent NPR article, Dr. Grace Lo said, “This is an exercise (people) can participate in over a lifetime. I think that is a great preventative strategy for many things, including arthritis.”

– Vikki Locke, C2 Communications, The SWFL 100

If you and your colleagues aren’t chatting about it already, May is a great time to start a conversation about the importance of mental health.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, one in five U.S. adults currently lives with a mental health condition – only half of whom will seek professional help.

Ready to begin? Here are some tips:

1. Foster a positive work environment.

2. Walk and talk during lunch.

3. Make time to meditate.

4. Share your experience with self-care.

5. Utilize this digital toolkit to help reduce the stigma associated with mental health in the workplace – throughout May and beyond.

– Hannah Van Sickle, The 100 Companies

“Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” – for the first time in over 20 years, Americans are not sleeping very well. This speaks to women under 50 in particular.

According to a Gallup poll, 57% of U.S. adults are exhausted. The opposite was true in 2013. The study suggests those 65 and older are much more rested than their younger counterparts. A major reason behind the lack of shut eye is stress. Younger women, ages 18-49, are the most stressed. Other reasons are depression and poor mental health.

Only 26% of us are getting the doctor recommended eight hours of sleep.

– Vikki Locke, C2 Communications, The SWFL 100

‘Tis the season for exploring the great outdoors, via highways and byways, which means keeping SPF at your fingertips is a lifeline. Literally.

According to The Skin Cancer Foundation, while UVB rays do not permeate glass, more than 50% of UVA rays definitely do, which puts drivers (and, passengers too) at risk for sun damage on skin that’s exposed.

Fun Fact: Windows, not windshields, are the problem (the latter are treated to block harmful rays).

Planning to hit the road? Move slathering sunscreen – on face, hands and arms – to the top of your to-do list.

Your skin will thank you.

– Hannah Van Sickle, The 100 Companies

1. Stay consistent with your routine outside of the gym: get enough sleep, hydrate throughout the day and eat the diet that is right for you and your body. These habits help tremendously in creating healthy routines.

2. Plan your workouts ahead of time. Add classes to your calendar or book a reservation in advance to help you follow through with your plan.

3. Eliminate external barriers: pack extra clothes, snacks and plan your route accounting for traffic!

4. Find a friend to help hold you accountable. Don’t have a gym buddy yet? Chances are you will find one the more you start going!

– Sara Habetz, Hype Haus Fitness (Article submitted by the New Orleans Chamber of Commerce), The New Orleans 100

Valentine’s Day launches Random Acts of Kindness Week, reminding people how a simple act of kindness can have a big impact on others and the world. Here are seven free random acts of kindness:

• Compliment the first three people you talk to today.

• Send a gratitude email to a coworker who deserves more recognition.

• Practice self-kindness and spend 30 minutes doing something you love.

• Have a clean-up party in your neighborhood or at a park.

• Run an errand for someone.

• Email a former teacher who made a difference in your life.

• Let someone go in front of you in line.

– Rebecca Hastings, The 100 Companies

January and February are the coldest months in Oklahoma, so it’s important to keep our furry friends happy and warm as temperatures drop. Here’s what you need to know about keeping your pet warm, snug and safe this winter season:

• Pick up a new coat, sweater or boots to keep your companion warm on outings.

• Provide a cozy place to sleep with plenty of blankets.

• After walks, make sure to wash and dry your pet’s feet and stomach.

• Feed your four-legged friend a little extra during the colder months.

• Maintain a winter grooming routine to avoid skin irritation and matting.

– Madison Mullinax, 360 Media, Inc., The Atlanta 100

Scientists at the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation (OMRF) made a groundbreaking discovery, tracing the origin of a brain disorder that’s similar to Parkinson’s disease.

The team, with Dr. Gaurav Varshney as lead researcher and under the leadership of Dr. Sheng-Jia Lin at OMRF, monitored zebrafish because they have a genetic similarity to humans when it comes to this type of disease.
Being able to research genetic mutations linked to degenerative brain diseases through monitoring specific zebrafish was a cornerstone of this important project. This research advances scientific knowledge and charts a potential path for prevention and treatment.

Learn more here.

– Staff Report, The Oklahoma 100

Rise and shiney, don’t be whiney! As more people return to the office, here are some suggestions on how to become more of a morning person.

Life coach Mhairi Todd says, “Ask yourself, ‘What am I going to use this extra time for? What am I going to gain from this?’” She stresses that change is hard, so suddenly jumping out of bed at the crack of dawn won’t be easy.

Other ways to accomplish your early rising routine include going to bed earlier, getting a good night’s sleep and starting your day with exercise.

And remember, attitude is everything.

– Vikki Locke, C2 Communications, The SWFL 100

The work-from-home revolution brought us closer to our cluttered chaos than ever before. Our homes transformed into office spaces, with laptops in the kitchen and stacks of papers on the dining table. But now, as we head back to the office for in-person interactions, it is time to regain our space and sanity.

Research shows that clutter negatively impacts our cognitive function and overall well-being. Start by reclaiming that closet turned “cloffice,” clearing your kitchen island and recovering your dining table. Embrace the flexibility of multipurpose furnishings and create a workspace that enhances both your productivity and peace of mind.

– Marty Brantley, Engel & Völkers New Orleans, The New Orleans 100

In recognition of National Suicide Prevention Month in September, the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (ODMHSAS) is offering free workplace suicide prevention training to any Oklahoma business or organization. To set up training, please send an email to megan.cannon@odmhsas.org.

The ODMHSAS Training Institute also provides numerous mental health educational events throughout the year. “Are You OK?” is a two-part e-learning program intended for organizational owners, supervisors and human resources staff to learn about preventing and responding to suicide in the workplace. For a full online course catalog, click here.

For more information, visit 988oklahoma.com.

– Staff Report, The Oklahoma 100

With July hitting the world record for the hottest month ever recorded, follow these five tips to stay safe while beating the summer heat:

1. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. Avoid caffeinated and alcoholic drinks.

2. Stay inside or find some shade. Keep cool by avoiding direct sunlight or staying inside.

3. Replenish electrolytes. Sweating decreases sodium levels; try drinking Gatorade or snacking on salty pretzels.

4. Wear loose-fitting, lightweight and light-colored clothes. Avoid dark clothing, which absorbs the sun’s rays.

5. Save outdoor activities for cooler times of the day. Check local temps and schedule activities for early morning or late evening.

– Madison Mullinax, 360 Media, Inc., The Atlanta 100

According to the Allergy and Asthma Network, asthma attacks increase during the third week of September due to the “perfect storm” of the season.

During more relaxed summer months, many children and adults may reduce or stop taking medication that can trigger inflammation and make them more susceptible to attacks.

Additionally, anxiety about returning to school, spending more time in classrooms and exposure to viruses at work and school can contribute to the rise in episodes.

Consistently using prescribed medication and reducing exposure to common triggers such as outdoor allergens, smoking and vaping can reduce the occurrence of asthma attacks.

– Cyndee Woolley, C2 Communications, The SWFL 100