Pilobolus at Play is an inspiring, week-long residency designed to nurture creativity and collaboration within three separate participant groups, bringing together individuals from various backgrounds and abilities. At the Center for Health & Wellbeing, Pilobolus will focus on our area’s vibrant 50+ community.  

Under the guidance of teaching artists from Pilobolus, an esteemed Connecticut-based dance company, participants 50 years of age and older will learn original movement pieces that capture the group’s distinct styles and perspectives. No previous dance experience required! 

This residency is free to participate in and promises to unlock the powerful effects of creativity on your overall health and wellbeing. Space is limited, so we do kindly request that you only sign up if you are committed to participating in all sessions, especially the Pilobolus Residency Performance on January 31. 

Here’s how it works:

— Movement workshops will be hosted at the Center for Health & Wellbeing, Monday, January 27 – Thursday, January 30, 9:30 – 11 AM. Participants will explore movement in a supportive and encouraging environment.  Click here to reserve your spot to participate!

— On the afternoon of Friday, January 31, participants will attend a tech rehearsal in the Alexis and Jim Pugh Theater at Dr. Phillips Center for Performing Arts. The group will have 30 minutes to an hour on stage to refine their performances with full lights and sound. Following the dress rehearsals, Dr. Phillips will host a shared dinner that fosters connections among participants from different groups, providing an opportunity to share experiences and insights from the week.  

— The residency culminates in a spectacular showcase on Friday evening in the Alexis and Jim Pugh Theater at Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, where all groups will unite to present their original works. This showcase is free and open to the public, inviting the community to witness the creativity and talent on display.  

In addition to the showcase, Pilobolus will invite two representatives from each group to join their team on stage for a talkback session after the show, where they can answer audience questions and reflect on the significance of the program and their personal journeys throughout the week.  

Join us in celebrating the transformative power of dance and community! 

Please note that anyone interested in joining must participate in all five days of the residency to ensure a cohesive experience. 

Watch the video below, featuring a conversation with Emily Kent, Education Director at Pilobolus, and Brooke Saad, Manager, Education, at Dr. Phillips Center for Performing Arts, to learn much more about this exciting opportunity!

Click here to register for the Pilobolus at Play residency at CHWB.

This program is presented by Pilobolus and is hosted by the Winter Park Health Foundation and Dr. Phillips Center for Performing Arts.    

About the Presenters:   

Pilobolus 

Pilobolus is a rebellious dance company. Since 1971, Pilobolus has tested the limits of human physicality to explore the beauty and the power of connected bodies. We continue to bring this tradition to global audiences through our post-disciplinary collaborations with some of the greatest influencers, thinkers, and creators in the world. Now, in our digitally driven and increasingly mediated landscape, we also reach beyond performance to teach people how to connect through designed live experiences. We bring our decades of expertise telling stories with the human form to show diverse communities, brands, and organizations how to maximize group creativity, solve problems, create surprise, and generate joy through the power of nonverbal communication. Pilobolus has created and toured over 120 pieces of repertory to more than 65 countries. Over the years we have performed our work for millions of people across the U.S. and around the world. 

Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts 

The Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, located in Orlando, Florida, is a premier cultural venue that has been captivating audiences since its opening in 2014. Featuring a variety of performance spaces—including the Walt Disney Theater, the Alexis & Jim Pugh Theater, Steinmetz Hall, and Judson’s Live—the center hosts an extensive range of performances, from theater and dance to music and live events. 

As a hub for both local and national artists, the Dr. Phillips Center showcases a diverse array of productions, including Broadway shows, classical concerts, contemporary dance, and community events. Committed to arts education and community engagement, the center offers programs and workshops designed for individuals of all ages. 

At the Dr. Phillips Center, we believe that a performing arts center should be more than a beautifully designed building; it should create experiences that educate as much as they entertain. Our vision, encapsulated in our motto Arts for Every Life®, emphasizes making the arts accessible to people from all walks of life. We invite everyone to join us on this inspiring journey. 

The post Pilobolus at Play Residency Comes to CHWB appeared first on Center for Health & Wellbeing.

According to the European Society of Cardiology (ESC), “the more you walk, the better.” In a study conducted by the ESC, research showed that walking significantly reduced participants’ risk of cardiovascular related diseases. Walking also shows excellent benefits for our mental health, including improved mood and increasing concentration and focus. 

The next question as a personal trainer that I usually get asked is, “How long and how often should I be exercising?” And once again, my answer is almost always the same — any time you can devote to your exercise routine counts! So, if you find yourself with just 10 or so minutes to get out for a quick walk around the block, that counts! If you’re a goal-oriented person, a typical individual should aim for 8,000 – 10,000 steps a day.  

Be sure to wear sneakers that are supportive and comfortable and talk to your doctor if you think you would benefit from orthotics for extra comfort. It’s also important to wear breathable clothing, pack a water bottle and wear sunscreen if walking outside. Keep in mind that a general recommendation for hydration is to drink at least ½ of your body weight in ounces of water per day. When exercising, it’s smart to increase these ounces since you’ll likely be working up a sweat. Pairing your walk with a great playlist or podcast makes time fly by. You may want to consider having a walking partner, too. Having someone for accountability is helpful and great conversation is a bonus! 

Here in Central Florida, we have so many beautiful walking trails and outdoor parks. Ward Park, just behind the Center for Health & Wellbeing, is an excellent place to walk; you may even see some of our local wildlife too. Be sure to check out the labyrinth in the park, too. It’s a great place for a meditative walk and it encourages relaxation and stress relief.  

You can also walk around CHWB’s outdoor track; 4 laps = 1 mile. According to the National Park Service, walking in nature reduces inflammation and boosts your immune system, which decreases the risk of certain diseases and cancers. For those of us who prefer to walk indoors in the air-conditioning, CHWB offers a walking track on the second level; 12 laps = 1 mile. Both CHWB walking tracks are free and open to the public, no membership required!  

It’s important to remember that our bodies are greatly benefited by movement. Walking, swimming, dancing, stretching, and lifting are all excellent examples of ways we can move. When my clients and attendees in the CHWB programs I teach ask me what the best type of exercise is, my answer is almost always the same — the type that you enjoy the most! Our bodies are so deserving of care and one way to care for ourselves is to exercise routinely. Put on those walking shoes and get those steps in! 

The post The Many Benefits of Walking by KK Swanson appeared first on Center for Health & Wellbeing.

• The Center for Health & Wellbeing’s Commons space, public walking track, and Crosby Wellness Center will re-open on Friday, October 11 at Noon. 

• Nourish Coffee Bar + Kitchen will re-open on Monday, October 14 at 8 AM. 

• AdventHealth Medical Practices and Services: Please contact AdventHealth Family Medicine, GYN-Surgery, Sports Medicine, Lab or Pharmacy offices for the most up-to-date information regarding changes to practice and service operating hours.  

This page will be updated in real time with any additional changes to operating hours. 

The post UPDATED: CHWB Hours Update: Hurricane Milton appeared first on Center for Health & Wellbeing.

It’s crucial that we eat nutrition-packed meals for many reasons such as improved mental focus, sustained energy levels, and the ability to fight off illnesses. With many options and little time, it can feel challenging to know where to start when it comes to packing our lunch for the day. To break it down simply, we want to aim to pack carbohydrates, fat, and protein in our lunch for a well-balanced meal. As stated above, these macronutrients work together to not only keep us full throughout the day but also increase both our mental and physical energy. There are many examples of these foods, so let’s talk about ways to build a simple, well-rounded lunch.  

Carbohydrates provide us with energy and examples of these include fruits, whole grains, and brown rice. Fats, when paired with carbohydrates, can help sustain our blood sugar levels and aid in nutrient absorption. Examples of healthy fats include avocados, nuts, and yogurt. In addition to a carbohydrate/fat combination, adding protein to your lunch will help keep you full throughout the day. Lean meats, quinoa, and hard-boiled eggs are protein-packed foods that are quick and easy for lunches at work. Did you forget to pack your lunch for the day? It’s a good idea to have a few healthy, local takeout options that can be your go-to when you’re in a pinch!  

Nutrition plays a key role in our overall health, and pairing this with an exercise program makes for an optimal wellness routine. After a busy day at work, sometimes working out is the last thing we want to do! But we also must keep in mind that exercise has many benefits that help our productivity levels. For example, exercise is shown to not only help us focus but also help regulate our sleep cycles. Working out also helps decrease our stress levels and improves our mood. Sounds important, right? One tip for a healthier day at work is to plan our exercise schedule ahead of time. Choose certain days of the week that feel more doable to work out – possibly a day when you’re working from home or have generally fewer meetings. Once you determine the number of days you are likely able to work out, write down an idea of what you are going to do for your exercise whether that is strength training, going for a walk, or stretching. Remember, every little bit counts, so even if you have a quick 10 minutes for a walk or stretch, your body will thank you! It’s also important to make note of what time of day – whether it be morning, afternoon, or evening – where we are most energetic and plan our workout schedule accordingly.  

There are seasons of life that feel busier than others. When life gets overwhelming it’s crucial to have these practices as habits so our health can continue to be a priority. Eating a well-rounded lunch at work containing all three macronutrients as well as planning our workout routine ahead of time will make for an overall healthier lifestyle and productive workday. 

Katelynn Swanson, aka KK, has been active in the fitness industry for over 12 years. KK attended the University of Florida and earned her Bachelor’s and Master’s in exercise science. KK specializes in strength training, weight loss, and nutrition education and is a Fitness Specialist at the Crosby Wellness Center and a regular presenter of fitness Community Education Programs at the Center for Health & Wellbeing.

Click HERE for a calendar of KK’s Community Education Programs. 

The post Tips & Tricks for a Healthier Day at Work with Crosby Wellness Center’s KK Swanson  appeared first on Center for Health & Wellbeing.

Physical Wellbeing

Move More. Eat Better. 

Physical Wellbeing focuses on practicing daily healthy habits that include moving your body and adding nutritious meals to your diet. It’s recommended to complete 150 minutes of aerobic activity each week to build strength, flexibility, and endurance. When it comes to exercise, everyone is different, and the Crosby Wellness Center enables you to experience fitness at your own pace. When you begin your exercise journey, you’ll find many other members with goals and exercise interests that match yours, a workout group, or a place to enjoy a quiet run, yoga class, or stretch session. To add nutritious and balanced meals to your diet, explore the many cooking demonstrations and programs led by dietitians and professional chefs in the CHWB Nutrition Theatre.  

Intellectual Wellbeing

Boost Your Brain. 

An active and open mind leads to a life filled with passion and purpose. To further apply this Dimension of Wellbeing, engaging in creative and stimulating activities is most effective. Doing so helps to keep your mind sharp and your brain healthy and happy. When you visit the CHWB Commons, you’ll find spaces with puzzles, games, and other engaging activities to boost your brain, in a space where it’s easy to create community and connection with others.  

Environmental Wellbeing

Love the Earth. 

Help the planet and bring a sense of accomplishment and wellbeing to your own life. Have you asked how your daily habits can positively affect the world around you? Spending time in nature can help decrease anxiety, lessen stress, and improve concentration. Bring your favorite book and find serenity in one of our Gardens.  

Vocational Wellbeing

Live with Purpose.  

This dimension of wellbeing focuses on enriching your life and that of others by sharing your special gifts, skills, and talents. Whether through work or volunteering, you can make a positive impact and reap the health benefits of adding purpose to your life. 

Social Wellbeing

Connect with Others.  

Personal connections contribute to a long and fulfilling life. When you nurture relationships with family and friends, you create healthy support networks for life. Bring friends and enjoy coffee talk at Nourish Coffee Bar + Kitchen to create social connections. 

Emotional Wellbeing

Practice Gratitude. 

Self-esteem and optimism are powerful healers. Expressing love and other emotions helps achieve balance in the face of challenges. Be mindful and live in the moment! It brings many happy tomorrows.  

Spiritual Wellbeing

Nourish your Soul.  

Is your mind at peace? A set of core beliefs or values that shape you and how you live your life often creates harmony. If you’re willing to seek meaning and purpose in your life with an open mind, you will likely find inner peace. Practicing meditation and mindfulness can nourish your soul. Explore meditation in one of our Community Education programs.  

The Seven Dimensions of Wellbeing can be seen from every angle inside the Center for Health & Wellbeing. Watching our community practice Social Wellbeing in the Commons, stride on the walking track to focus on their Physical Wellbeing, and enjoying a good book in the gardens for Environmental Wellbeing are all ways to focus on holistic wellness at CHWB. Explore the Seven Dimensions of Wellbeing HERE.  

The post Explore the Seven Dimensions of Wellbeing for National Wellness Month.   appeared first on Center for Health & Wellbeing.

The beginning of gut health research focused on the role of microorganisms and how they can attract the attention of basic infectious diseases based on the health and nutrition of the subject. Today, this research has evolved and sparked popularity on how we can prioritize our gut health and the microorganisms that make up the gut microbiome far beyond the connection of gut health and infectious disease. Some research looks at the effect nutrition has on promoting gut health and healing the microbiome. A few ways to heal your gut microbiome are incorporating pro and pre-biotics, having a balanced diet, and exercising daily. Recently, CHWB hosted two programs with healing the gut microbiome at the forefront of the programs’ foci – Food as Medicine: How to Feed Your Gut Microbiome and Optimize Your Microbiome: Decrease Inflammation and Chronic Disease.  
 
Program presenters Allison Harrell, RD, Dr. Karen Corbin, PHD, RD, and Dr. Laura Varich shared their expert insights and advice on the Gut Microbiome. Here are key takeaways from each.  

What is the Gut Microbiome? 

The gut microbiome is made up of trillions of microorganisms that affect each other and the digestive system. There are more microorganisms in your gut than cells in your body. These microbes release hormones, impact how you think, and affect how many calories you absorb from the foods you eat. According to the Cleveland Clinic, “a biome is an ecosystem characterized by its environment and inhabitants.” The gut microbiome can be compared to a garden — if you feed it the right nutrients, the flowers will flourish, and you will too. When you starve the microbiome, it can upset your entire body. Your gut microbiome interacts with many systems in your body, so it’s important to feed it the correct nutrients so that the bacteria in your gut can help break down complex carbohydrates, fibers and resistant starches while producing important nutrients and synthesizing vitamins like B1, B9, and B12. 

Food as Medicine: How to Feed Your Gut Microbiome  

Allison Harrell, RD, and Dr. Karen Corbin, PhD, RD, Principal Investigator at the AdventHealth Translational Research Institute, led the Food as Medicine: How to Feed Your Gut Microbiome cooking demonstration during which they shared recipes and tips on what food should be added to your diet to feed your microbiome.  Dr. Corbin discussed the research done around the microbiome and how choosing a diet that feeds the microbes can affect feeling full and the ways we consume food. This research found that individuals who ate a gut microbiome diet compared to the western diet absorbed 116 fewer calories per day because of how microbes helped divert nutrients to the body. The study also found that when eating the microbiome diet, the microbes grew and created molecules like GLP-1, a common component in certain diabetes and obesity medication, and diverted calories away from the person. 

A component to the microbiome diet that aided in gut health were foods rich in fiber like legumes, nuts, and seeds. Did you know that the body is supposed to consume 14 grams of fiber for every thousand calories per day? Diets rich in fiber are great for the microbiome due to how it ferments in the gut and secretes essential fatty acids. During the discussion with Dr. Corbin, Allison Harrel prepared three menu items to feed the gut microbiome: Turkey Picadillo, Baked Tostones, and a Spanish Bulgar Wheat Salad, all foods rich in protein and fiber. 

Watch the full webinar on feeding the gut microbiome with Allison Harrel and Dr. Karen Corbin HERE.  

Optimize Your Microbiome: Decrease Inflammation and Chronic Disease 

 In “Optimize Your Microbiome: Decrease Inflammation and Chronic Disease”, Dr. Laura Varich, a Certified Lifestyle Medicine physician, covered the role of antibiotics on gut health, pre-biotics to feed your microbiome and probiotics to grow your microbiome. When prescribed antibiotics, it’s important to use them only when necessary and exactly as directed; eat fiber-rich foods to replenish your microbiome after a round of antibiotics to speed up the healing process. Eating fiber-dense foods like whole grains, fruit, vegetables, legumes, nuts, and seeds feed the microorganisms in your gut.  Fermented foods are also a form of probiotics that help grow the microbes in your gut. Examples of fermented foods include kimchi, kombucha, yogurt with active cultures, and kefir.  

A healthy gut microbiome improves digestion, destroys harmful bacteria in your body, helps control your immune system and has a positive impact on energy and mood. It’s important to recognize the components of a gut-healthy diet and incorporate those foods into your everyday meals to live a healthier and happier lifestyle.  

About the Cooking Programs hosted at the Center for Health & Wellbeing: 

CHWB hosts multiple cooking demonstrations and nutrition programs designed to assist you on your journey to finding healthy food swaps, adding additional vegetables and fruits to your diet, creating meal plans with a focus on specific medical diagnoses, and creating healthy habits that stick. Hosted in CHWB’s Nutrition Theatre, program attendees are encouraged to sample items prepared by culinary experts, dietitians, and medical professionals while engaging and learning about the nutritional value in our everyday meals.  

Register for one of CHWB’s Cooking Programs HERE.  

The post Nutrition for Your Gut Microbiome  appeared first on Center for Health & Wellbeing.

First, we talked with Dr. Trevor Owens, a family medicine physician in the AdventHealth Family Medicine practice at the Center for Health & Wellbeing. Dr Owens shared his tips on preventive care and the importance of mental health during Men’s Health Month.  

CHWB: What are five preventative measures that men can take to prioritize health and wellbeing? 

Dr. Owens: Five preventive measures that prioritize health and wellbeing are,  

1. Developing a healthy lifestyle starts with food intake. We really are (or become) what we eat in the sense that our body is influenced by the nutrients or lack of nutrients we receive.  Natural and whole foods such as fruits and vegetables have the most beneficial nutrients as opposed to processed, artificial foods. 

2. Exercise. 150 minutes of aerobic activity per week with resistance exercise at least twice weekly is enough to make one feel more energetic.  

3. Having a night routine can improve your quality of sleep. Suppose you have a regular bedtime schedule in a cool, dark room with ambient noise, and eliminate distractions including your phone. It can improve your mood and sleep quality and have other positive impacts on overall health.  

4. Maintaining healthy relationships with close friends and family is another way for men to prioritize health and wellbeing. Offering people help and having a support group instills purpose and meaning in your everyday life. 

5. Eliminate harmful substances such as smoking and vaping and limit alcohol intake to less than two drinks per day, assuming drinking is a daily habit. Less is better. 

CHWB: We mostly think about health in the physical sense (fitness, for example), but how important is mental health to the overall health of men? 

Dr. Owens: Mental health is just as important as physical health.  The body is interconnected by its cells, tissues, organs, systems, mind, and spirit. We become healthier by first deciding to be healthier in our minds.  An optimistic attitude towards improving ourselves is imperative at the start. It is only too late to start living a more fruitful life if the heart stops beating permanently.  Managing stress has become more difficult in our daily lives. There is an increasing epidemic of anxiety and depression. I encourage patients to be open to speaking with a therapist in addition to taking medication.  One does not need to wait until a crisis to speak with a professional who is trained to help one reflect on what is causing current, unsettling conflict. In addition, anchoring oneself when feeling little is in their control is helpful, this can include prayer, meditation, deep breathing, and going for walks.  

Trevor Hicks, Senior Director of Clinical Integration at the Winter Park Health Foundation (WPHF) coordinates the wellTogether program, a community health initiative of WPHF that is hosted at CHWB. The program focuses on helping participants live a healthier, happier lifestyle through a focus on Fitness, Behavior Change, and Nutrition, and how those pillars work symbiotically towards whole-person health. We asked Trevor why and how he encourages participants to join the program and be active participants if they are feeling hesitant. 

Trevor Hicks: I encourage patients from the very first meeting or interaction we have, whether that be the initial call or when meeting them in person for the first time at the Information Session we hold in person. I discuss their journey, encourage them to share their motivation and expectations for a program like this and then I utilize the information they have given me to personalize why I think they are a strong candidate for the program. A lot of people share that their concern is one area or pillar more than another, so I give them feedback on positive changes previous participants have seen. I also explain to them that we will meet them where they are in their journey, hold their hand, and begin to make small but meaningful changes in their daily behaviors that will lead to long-term health and wellbeing. 

wellTogether is designed for people who are at risk for or managing diabetes or cardiovascular conditions, or for people who are interested in taking a proactive approach to future health challenges. wellTogether offers a clinically integrated approach to sustainable, long-term health improvement through a focus on three Pillars, Fitness, Behavior Change, and Nutrition. To learn more about the wellTogether program, and to register for an upcoming information session, contact Trevor Hicks, HERE. 

Patrick Faulk, Center Director at Crosby Wellness Center, often leads seminars and panel discussions related to health and wellness. We asked Patrick to talk about how he encourages men to take the initiative in prioritizing their wellbeing related to fitness and stress management.  

Patrick Faulk: When leading and facilitating talks, I encourage men to prioritize their health by highlighting the long-term benefits of fitness and stress management, such as improved mental clarity, enhanced physical performance, and increased longevity. I share relatable success stories and practical tips about forming healthy habits and setting achievable goals that can be easily integrated into their daily routines. Additionally, I emphasize that they are not alone in their health concerns, and many others feel the same way, underscoring the importance of staying active for their wellbeing and long-term whole person health. 

Men, your health matters. Find the care, programs, fitness classes, and nutrition education you need to kickstart your health journey when you visit the Center for Health & Wellbeing and participate in our world-class amenities and services. Prioritize your health & wellbeing during a Community Education program at CHWB HERE.  

Dr. Trevor Owens, MD, Family Medicine Physician at the AdventHealth Family Medicine Practice inside the Center for Health & Wellbeing. Trevor Owens, MD, is a board-certified family medicine physician. After graduating from the University of Florida with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology, Dr. Owens went on to earn a medical degree from the American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine. Dr. Owens is a member of the American Academy of Family Physicians and has a passion for providing whole-person health to every patient. To learn more about the AdventHealth Family Medicine Practice, and Dr. Owens, click HERE.

Trevor Hicks, DPT, is the Senior Director of Clinical Integration at the Winter Park Health Foundation. Trevor is a proud UCF alum and holds two degrees from UCF, a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences and a Doctorate in Physical Therapy. Trevor practiced Physical Therapy for more than nine years before joining the WPHF.

Patrick Faulk is the Center Director at Crosby Wellness Center inside the Center for Health & Wellbeing. Prior to joining the team, he spent 13 years with AdventHealth’s Institute for Lifestyle Medicine in Celebration, FL. Starting as a Personal Trainer and Member Services Representative, Patrick advanced to Senior Manager of Clinical and Retail Operations, overseeing the Wellness Center, Executive Health Program, and Lifestyle Clinic. A lifelong resident of Central Florida, Patrick is an advocate for whole-person health and enjoys golfing in his spare time. 

The post June is Men’s Health Month appeared first on Center for Health & Wellbeing.

Written by Alison Issen, MS, RN, LMHC.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month. At the Center for Health & Wellbeing, we’re proud to regularly feature Community Education programs designed to support your mental health. One of our regular presenters is Alison Issen, a licensed mental health counselor and registered nurse who has worked in the field of health and wellbeing for more than 35 years.

Click HERE to register for Alison’s program on May 28, Finding Comfort in our Discomfort.

Stress is bad for us, right?  We’ve been hearing for years that high levels of stress hormones can take their toll on our cardiovascular and immune systems, as well as our physical, mental, and emotional systems. Recent studies, however, have demonstrated that there is a modifying factor on how debilitating stressors may be, and that involves our perception of stress as friend or foe. 

A 2012 study by Harvard University tracked 30,000 adults for eight years and asked two questions: “How much stress have you experienced in the past year?” and “Do you believe stress is harmful for your health?” They then tracked mortality rates of the participants.

Researchers discovered that the people who experienced a lot of stress in the previous year had a 43 percent higher chance of dying, but only if they also believed that stress was harmful for their health. People who experienced a lot of stress but did not view stress as harmful were no more likely to die and actually had a lower risk of dying than those who experienced relatively little stress.

So often, when an unwelcome situation enters our lives, our usual response is to believe this is more than we are capable of handling, leading to feelings of low self-confidence, hopelessness, fear, and even despair. In part, these responses are fed by the physiological release of stress hormones in response to what our brain perceives as a threat to our status quo. But these hormones also increase focus, alertness, and the ability to think-on-our-feet. If we can change our perspective to remember how we have survived many challenges throughout our lives, and review what made those situations worse and what improved them, we may be able to prevent an increase in our panic and worry. To do this, many of us must consciously practice new self-talk, identifying ourselves as capable survivors. In time, this will lay down new neural highways in our brain, that will be more traveled than our old self-defeating talk, and we will more quickly turn problems into challenging new projects.

For more information on changing the perception of stress from dangerous/debilitating to enhancing/challenging, you may want to look at the work of Dr. Kelly McGonigal who wrote The Upside of Stress, and did a TED Talk called How to Make Stress Your Friend HERE.

Another process which has been identified as a positive, multifaceted response to traumatic experiences is Post-Traumatic Growth or PTG. It is defined as “positive psychological change experienced as a result of adversity and other challenges in order to rise to a higher level of functioning.” PTG does not diminish our grief or feelings of distress regarding adversity, but is a process of growing into a different and more positive way of living over time after experiencing extreme difficulty.

Post-Traumatic Growth tends to occur in five general areas:

• An increased sense of gratitude and awe in the present moment
• Making close relationships a greater priority than before and an increased sense of compassion for others who suffer 
• A sense that new opportunities have opened up that were not there or were not perceived before
• Recognition of one’s own courage, strengths and abilities
• Some individuals experience a deepening of their spiritual lives. However, this deepening may involve a significant change in one’s belief system.

If you would like to take the PTG Inventory, it can be accessed HERE.

There is no way to live stress-free and life will continue to provide us many opportunities for Post-Traumatic Growth, involving more attentiveness to our relationships, more intentional and purposeful activity, increased gratitude for what is good and beautiful, and recognition of the strength it took to survive these times and maintain our wellbeing. 

One of my favorite inspirational readings comes from psychotherapist Elana Rosenbaum, who has survived Lymphoma several times. I read it multiple times the morning I was going in for extensive surgery, and most mornings since surviving that scare. May it bring you inspiration and resolve.

Credo by Elana Rosenbaum

I resolve to dwell in the present and not be captured by fear.

 I shall use my experience to remember the preciousness of life and the gifts I have received.

I shall challenge myself to live wisely and make meaning of my experience,

letting it transform me.

I shall work to bring peace to others, so they, too, may be free.

 I am filled with gratitude to all who have helped me be alive and well.

May I never forget the grace that has been bestowed upon me.

It is not important what will be tomorrow.

It is important to live today in harmony with myself and others and to use the love I receive to give it out again.

I shall work to maintain a balance, opening to what is true and acting accordingly.

I shall not be ashamed of praise, but value my efforts, appreciate my bravery and celebrate my joy.

May I be able to love, care for my body and spirit, and help others do the same.

May we all be well, and may I live with ease and happiness.

Alison C. Issen has a Master of Science in Clinical Psychology from the University of Central Florida, and is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, as well as a Registered Nurse. Alison recently retired as the outpatient counselor at Orlando Health/UFHealth Cancer Center. For several years, Alison coordinated the Sage-ing Center, a program that encourages and supports adults of all ages, and particularly those in the second half of life, to inventory, evaluate, and intentionally plan a life of purpose, learning, fulfillment, and community service. Alison brought this comprehensive program to the hospice several years ago and developed Hospice of the Comforter’s Quality of Life Education Program. Alison has taught psychology at the college level and has worked in the field of health and wellness for over 35 years, including over 10 years as a hospice nurse and counselor. Her specialty areas include stress management, grief and loss, end-of-life, aging and relationship issues, Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy, and Positive Psychology. Beyond her professional life, Alison is an “extreme gardener,” volunteers at a local animal shelter, and performs with local singing and theatre groups.

The post Is There an Upside to Stress? appeared first on Center for Health & Wellbeing.

In honor of April’s Earth Month, we sat down with Alyssa Bolaños, a local sustainability activist and founder of Winter Park’s Eco Shop + Refillery, Oh Eco, to discuss how living a sustainable lifestyle intersects with her own health and wellbeing. Keep reading to discover Alyssa’s point of view on creating a lifestyle that’s accessible for all, her tips and tricks for making easy swaps that have a big impact, and why spending time in nature improves overall wellbeing.

CHWB: Living sustainably is important year-round, but for those of us who are new to the movement, April’s Earth Month is a great time to get started. As an advocate for green living, what does the term “living sustainably” mean to you? 

ALYSSA: Living sustainably will look different for everyone because it’s about everyone’s individual journey — what’s realistic for me might not be realistic for someone else. But at the very core of it, living sustainably to me is living in a mindful way that tries to do no harm to ourselves and to the planet around us. It’s all about balancing our lifestyle with the world around us.  

CHWB: What are easy swaps that lead to a more sustainable lifestyle? And how can those small swaps lead to a big impact not only on the individual but also on a larger scale? 

ALYSSA: The easiest places to start making swaps are your kitchen and your bathroom. I find that those are the places that have more one-for-one swaps. You have a toothbrush that’s plastic, and here’s the same toothbrush, but it’s made from wood instead. So, it’s an easier swap than someone going from Colgate Toothpaste to toothpaste tabs. A lot of those swaps mimic your regular non-sustainable disposable items. Bathroom and kitchen swaps are small changes that make a big impact. Another swap is going from plastic water bottles to a reusable bottle. Refilling a water bottle a certain number of times saves you money and plastic from entering landfills and waterways. These swaps, while they seem small, can lead to a larger impact on environmental wellbeing and allow sustainability to be accessible.  

CHWB: While working to make sustainability accessible for everyone as the owner of Winter Park’s Refillery + Eco Shop, Oh Eco, how do you encourage repeat customers and first-time shoppers to make that initial step towards a more sustainable lifestyle? 

ALYSSA: Start small. Finish what you have and swap or refill what you need. I always tell people to finish their laundry detergent, soap, shampoo, and conditioner, and then come try our refillery. I think once we have these conversations about how sustainable swaps are accessible for everyone, the movement starts to click and become a habit. There are always individuals who are intimidated by making those changes and I normally use this example: you buy a bottle of hand soap, and then you throw it out, you buy another one — the process repeats itself. But you can bring that first empty bottle here and refill it. I often tell my customers and browsers to just try something, they don’t have to change your whole lifestyle to make an impact. And I think that’s something that resonates with them. I think when they come to Oh Eco, and have that conversation with me, they’re already less intimidated. I like to have products in my store that you wouldn’t typically think are eco-friendly. That’s where the Oh, in our Oh Eco comes from. People browse the store and find something new and say “Oh, this is eco-friendly?” It shows people that making the step towards sustainability can be accomplished. Part of our mission is that we want sustainability to be easy and accessible for everyone.  

CHWB: The Center for Health & Wellbeing is rooted in the Seven Dimensions of Wellbeing, a guiding philosophy that includes Environmental Wellbeing. To us, environmental wellbeing means that helping the planet can bring a sense of accomplishment and wellbeing to your own life. How does living sustainably align with the ways you support your own wellbeing? 

ALYSSA: I believe that nature is healing. Everyone needs to spend some time outside every day in the sun and fresh air. The goal of living sustainably or environmentally conscious is to protect this planet. So, every day I’m able to sit and enjoy being outside, experiencing the world around us, the air and sun, the little things that people tend to take for granted and being grounded in the environment helps my mental health. I’m able to start my day a little more levelheaded and clearer. At the same time, purchasing and eating locally grown food and produce decreases emissions, plus we’re eating healthier, organic food that was grown close to home. I feel better not only by eating healthier, more natural foods but by purchasing from local farmers, I’m supporting a local business while being environmentally conscious.  

Alyssa moved to Orlando from New York with her husband Patrick and realized that there was a need for sustainability resources, eco-friendly swaps to bathroom and kitchen essentials and a place where the community can learn about living sustainably in a fun and inclusive environment. She founded Oh Eco, Winter Park’s one-stop eco-friendly shop and refillery, where she helps community members make eco-conscious swaps for their everyday products.  

Meet Alyssa and shop her eco-friendly goods when she joins other sustainability vendors during the 2024 Ward & Wellbeing Earth Day Block Party on April 27. Back for another year, the Block Party is jam-packed with family-friendly, sustainability-themed fun! Go the extra mile and join Track Shack’s and the City of Winter Park’s Run for Trees 5K sponsored by the Center for Health & Wellbeing, then join us to celebrate post-race and browse our Earth Day Open House. Or, skip the race, and bring your family to participate in the Open House’s sustainable activities, learn from green vendors like Alyssa, compete for giveaways, and more.

The post Sustainable Living: When Healing the Earth Meets Healing Oneself  appeared first on Center for Health & Wellbeing.

In a recent Community Education program, Herbs for the Nervous System, presented by ACE Certified Health Coach Julie Ward, program attendees learned how to regulate their nervous systems with the aid of herbs and intentional lifestyle habits.  
 
Here’s more from Julie Ward’s presentation.  

Part 1: What is the Nervous System? 

There are two divisions to the nervous system – central and peripheral. The central nervous system is made up of the brain and spinal cord. The peripheral nervous system is made up of the autonomic and somatic nervous systems with afferent (sensory) and efferent (motor) nerves. The autonomic nervous system has two branches – parasympathetic (calming) and sympathetic (fight-or-flight). 

Part 2: Signs of a Dysregulated Nervous System 

Understanding the nervous system empowers you with the information to learn how to care for yourself when it’s dysregulated or in fight-or-flight mode. Feeling overwhelmed when things aren’t going well, overreacting to false alarms, feeling spaced out or on autopilot, and being tired but not able to relax are all signs of a dysregulated nervous system. Now that you know the basics and signs of a dysregulated nervous system, how can you regulate it with herbs and lifestyle habits?  

Part 3: Adaptogens for the Nervous System 

Adaptogens are non-toxic herbs that help the body regulate stress, support metabolism and restore balance. Adaptogens are mainly used for fatigue and chronic stress. A few of the “holy grail” adaptogens and their uses are: 

• Asian Ginseng: Regulates the central nervous system 
• Ashwagandha: Calms the nervous system 
• Holy Basil: Lowers blood sugar, is an anti-tumor and opens the heart & mind 
• Licorice: Fights bacterial infections, and strengthens stomach and spleen function 
• Rhodiola: Enhances alertness, and reduces fatigue and improves memory 

While these adaptogens are safe to take daily, it’s important to first consult with your doctor before starting any herbs as many can affect medications and pre-existing conditions.  

Part 4: Herbs to Compliment Adaptogens  

Certain herbs can enhance the effects of adaptogens and are calming, nourishing and relaxing. Nervines are teas, tonics and tinctures to use in addition to adaptogens, and some might be already stocked in your pantry.  

• Chamomile Tea: Relieves anxiety, upset stomach, IBS and some headaches 
• Lemon Balm Tea: Mood elevator and enhances cognitive function 
• Fresh Milky Oats Tincture: Nourishes tissue and calms shattered nerves   

Chamomile and lemon balm teas are common and can be found in your local grocery store. It’s important to consult with your doctor before starting a new wellness regime as it may interfere with current medications and pre-existing conditions. 

Part 5: Lifestyle Habits to Regulate the Nervous System 

Outside of herbs and adaptogens, there are additional ways to regulate the nervous system with lifestyle habits. Spending time in nature, staying grounded with a weighted blanket, eating healthy fats, getting good sleep and making time to give yourself space by doing activities that make you happy are all lifestyle habits that can help regulate your nervous system.  

Julie Ward demonstrated her expertise and passion for preventive, holistic care by sharing the uses of herbs and lifestyle habits to regulate the nervous system, allowing attendees to try a nervine tea and showing how to look for respectable and reliable companies to purchase herbs, tonics and teas from. It’s important to always consult with your doctor before adding herbs and tonics to your daily wellness regimen.  

The Community Education programs hosted at the Center for Health & Wellbeing are designed to support participants on their journey to whole-person health through Wholeness, Fitness and Medicine-focused classes, seminars and cooking demonstrations. On Tuesday, March 19, from 11 AM – 12 PM, Julie Ward will host Tea Meditation, a program that focuses on learning to be in tune with what you feel in your body and following that intuition in the real world. Participants taste a series of herbal teas designed to increase energy and relax the mind. Register for Tea Meditation HERE.  

The post Regulating the Nervous System  appeared first on Center for Health & Wellbeing.

CHWB is hosting several Community Education programs geared toward heart health education in February. These programs include Use Your Heart’s Intelligence to Build Resilience, Strength Training for the Heart, AdventHealth’s Stroke Support Group, Decreasing Heart Disease through Lifestyle Change, CHWB Heart Month Dance Party and others. To register for one or more of the programs above, click here.  

The AdventHealth medical services at CHWB empowers you with access to experts who can guide you toward a healthier lifestyle. Meet with the Primary Care physicians to discuss steps to take to improve heart health, set up routine lab work to check cholesterol and other important tests at the AdventHealth Lab inside CHWB, or use the onsite retail pharmacy for prescription medications or over-the-counter needs.  

Crosby Wellness Center, the state-of-the-art fitness facility inside CHWB, is a membership-based fitness center that works to improve the lives of its members through its many amenities. For instance, the Natatorium is equipped with two indoor pools – one for lap swimming, which can improve heart health by making your most important organ work more efficiently; and an aqua-fitness pool, fitness floor, cycling studio, Pilates reformers and a dedicated staff to assist in your wellbeing journey.

But your heart’s health doesn’t stop with fitness or medicine – nutrition is a key component. Incorporate heart-healthy ingredients into everyday meals like whole grains, nuts, or low-fat dairy products and limit foods high in sodium and saturated fat. Nourish Coffee Bar + Kitchen, the health-focused cafe inside CHWB, offers many menu items that incorporate healthy ingredients to support your wellbeing, like the Super Food Power Bowl packed with vitamins and minerals or the Stuffed Butternut Squash. You can enjoy these items in the cafe, or browse our take-home meals to enjoy on the go or at home.

It’s important to remember that taking care of yourself is the most important factor in your daily routine. Incorporate these heart-healthy services and programs offered at the Center for Health & Wellbeing and the at-home tips into your everyday life so you too can continue a healthier, more fulfilled life.  

The post American Heart Month appeared first on Center for Health & Wellbeing.

The Community Education programs at the Center for Health & Wellbeing are designed to support you through your wellbeing journey. Whether you’re looking to incorporate nutritious ingredients into your diet or exploring food as medicine, we offer a cooking class for your needs. Learn more about our cooking programs and other Community Education offerings here.  

The post Workweek Lunches appeared first on Center for Health & Wellbeing.