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Spring is a time for a fresh start. Did you know that one of the best things you can do for yourself is to help others? Finding a cause and community really does bring its own benefits. Here are eight of them:

1. Decreasing symptoms of depression - Studies show that volunteering can decrease depression symptoms and improve mood.
2. Making social connections to improve physical health and psychological well-being - Social connection strengthens our immune systems, helps us recover from disease faster and may even lengthen life. Conversely, studies have shown that a lack of social connection is a

Spring evokes many emotions for any gardener. All the plans made over a year need to be implemented in a burst of activity over just a few weeks. A lot needs to be done, and time is of essence. Looking forward to seeing some of the perennials come back with anxious excitement is like meeting a dear friend. But, some do not come back, especially after a long, cold winter like we just had! This spring was special because we had a family of black-capped chickadees nesting in our front yard. It was a validation for all the hard work that went into our garden. 

Let me explain: My family has worked

Type “mindfulness” into the app store on your phone and you’ll be presented with many options. For some, these options are great ways to bring nonjudgmental awareness to the present moment. But, there are ways to become more mindful in your life without the use of apps. Try these three activities that you can do without your phone.

Five-Finger Breathing

Do you have a lot going on? Is your mind racing on the long list of things to do? This breathing technique can help ground you when you're anxious by engaging several of your senses. Using sight and touch and adding in breathing allows your brain

There’s nothing easy about a difficult diagnosis, such as a serious disease or chronic condition. Your life path and outlook change when you hear words like cancer, kidney disease, diabetes, heart disease, multiple sclerosis or dementia applied to you. The same emotions may apply if you have a loss of vision, hearing or mobility. 

It can feel like you're being forced on a frightening journey with an uncertain destination. Or you may suddenly have a much clearer idea of what your future will be like. While some illnesses or conditions may have a resolution after treatment, others continue for