Women Over 50 Thrive!

Laughter Is the Best Medicine – and Exercise Too?

Two years ago I completed my Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology – Life Coaching. I only mention it because I am 59 years old and want to say, “Go for it ladies!” Don’t let age stop you from anything you want to accomplish! I had to do a video presentation for my Communications class and I chose to do it on LAUGHTER is the best medicine! Where would I be without it? How about you?

OK, OK! Seriously now. My video presentation was entitled “Laughter is Medicinal.” I’m sure you have heard that it is the BEST medicine. But did you know that it is great EXERCISE too?!? Yes! Let me tell you the facts! How does laughing make you feel? Can you remember a time when you laughed so hard your belly hurt, your throat constricted and tears ran down your face? According to the Association for Applied and Therapeutic Humor and studies done at the University of Maryland, these responses, along with others, hold many health benefits. Now for the facts!

Laughter Is the Best Medicine… …….. and EXERCISE Too!

1) It reduces stress hormones, which boosts the immune system.

2) While laughing, natural killer cells, called T-cells and B-cells, are increased. They destroy tumors and viruses in the body.

3) It protects the heart. Researchers have determined that laughing 100 times is equal to riding a bike for 15 minutes – cardiovascular exercise! This explains why you are often tired after a good laugh. So… a minute of laughing or 15 minutes on a bike?

4) When you laugh, blood receives oxygen; so, blood flow is increased and blood pressure is lowered.

5) Laughter is healing for the mind and emotions. It adds joy and zest to life!

6) Laughing can provide the needed release when we find ourselves overloaded with negative emotions such as anger, stress, sadness or fear.

7) It promotes a feeling of well-being and can reduce pain. Helpguide.org states, “Laughing releases endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good chemicals.”

8) Laughter is related to making and strengthening our human connections. It feels good to laugh with people. It adds to our sense of well-being.

I can personally attest to the healing power of laughter. I had a volatile upbringing, but somehow, humor became an integral part of my life. I was voted ‘class clown’ and ‘wittiest’ in my senior year of high school in 1975 and MC’d a few comedy fund raisers. I know firsthand that laughter holds great medicinal value.

In closing, I’d like to quote Patch Adams, a medical doctor who uses humor in his care of patients. “Remember laughing? Laughter enhances the blood flow to the body’s extremities and improves cardiovascular function. Laughter releases endorphins and other natural mood elevating and pain-killing chemicals, improves the transfer of oxygen and nutrients to internal organs. Laughter boosts the immune system and helps the body fight off disease and cancer cells, as well as viral, bacterial and other infections.”

So Ladies… One minute of laughing, or 15 minutes on a bike? Your choice! Laughter is the Best Medicine – and Exercise Too! By the way, if you haven’t seen Patch Adams with Robin Williams, it’s a must see! So Laugh! And…

Thrive! OK?

http://health.howstuffworks.com/mental-health/human-nature/otheremotions/laughter.htm
http://www.helpguide.org/life/humor_laughter_health.htm
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Patch_Adams

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Laughter

Just for Laughs

Three Over50 women were having lunch together in one of their homes. One confesses, “I was half-way up the stairs the other day, and I couldn’t remember if I was going up or down!” The other ladies laugh and one counters, “I know what you mean. I was standing in front of the refrigerator yesterday and couldn’t remember if I was putting something in or taking something out!” As the laughter dies down, the third woman chimes in, “I haven’t really had any problems as of yet, knock on wood (she knocks on the table). Oh,” she says, “There is someone at the door!”

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Brain

My Mother Had a Diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease

My mother had received a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease and was in the early stages when she died five years ago. Little things happen that remind of her life on this earth, and I celebrate her each time.

“C’mon!” My girlfriend pleaded with the car in front of her. Then she noticed it was an elderly couple. “My friend at work calls them Q-Tips,” she said with a laugh. “Little white diagnosis of Alzheimer's Disease heads sticking up barely over the seat. “They shouldn’t be driving.”

I didn’t chuckle, agree, or disagree. All I could do is recall the incident that returned my mother to Massachusetts after living in Florida for twenty years. Fourteen of those years she lived without my dad, who died in 1999. She was never the same after that, and was in a pretty steady decline since.

Before the Diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease – The Day Alzheimer’s Became a Reality

Then there was the infamous day she found herself sitting on a median on a Florida road, disoriented, her car all smashed up. She took a wrong turn somewhere, and kept backing into a tree trying to right herself. Her friend called 911 when she didn’t get the ritual ‘I made it home’ call. The helicopter found her sitting on the median. She lost her independence. She flew back home. diagnosis of Alzheimer's Disease

I tell this story because many of us women Over50 are touched by Alzheimer’s/Dementia. How do we thrive here? The definition of thrive according to Merriam-Webster is to grow or develop successfully: to flourish or succeed. I found the most important thing in dealing with my mom’s situation was to enjoy her presence and treat her with honor and respect. So what if she told the same story over and over. I laughed every time. So what if she was temperamental. I was her teen-age daughter once. The most important thing we can do in these situations is to get support, and that will look different for each of us. However, none of us thrive in isolation. We need each other. You need to hear other people’s stories and they need to hear yours. You need people to laugh with and cry with. I am posting the phone number for the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (866-232-8484) in case you need direction. Please feel free to dialogue here in the comments section also.

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Exercises

Hi Ladies! Exercise for women over 50 is a big topic right now. That tells me that we are not going to sit around and pout about our sagging this and our wrinkled that, but we’re going to do whatever we can to thrive in the golden years!

Welcome to the exercises page! I had every intention of making this page a transformation of my bad self! I had visions of doing befores and afters of all my body parts as I exercised my way to a gorgeous specimen of an over 50 woman. Well…. not happening right now.

exercise for women over 50

You may have read that I am a letter carrier with the USPS and getting ready to retire September 2nd of this year (2016). I walk 7.3 miles a day and climb 62 staircases. I’m going to be 60 this August, and quite frankly, I’m POOPED when I get home. I’m not ready to get all my parts in shape! I’m in decent shape, but many parts of me need work.

Exercise for Women Over 50 by Linda Melone

What I decided to do for you here, is recommend a woman who has a website filled with excellent exercise routines, health tips etc. and she is a hoot! She’s 57 and IN SUCH GOOD SHAPE… an example to all of us for sure. Her name is Linda Melone and her website is Ageless After 50! I have chosen one of her videos to give you a glimpse of what to expect. Take 2 minutes and 23 seconds to meet her. You will not be disappointed!

My deepest hope is that you will find exactly what you were looking for by coming to the exercise page of WomenOver50Thrive! I think Linda can help you find the exercises you’re looking for to tone whatever part of your beautiful self that needs toning. Because you clicked on the site, I know you are ready to make some changes so…

Thrive! OK? …

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Home

Haircuts

What Is Happening to My Hair?

My hair is dry and brittle…. All I want to do is bring a picture to my hairdresser and tell her to ………

MAKE ME LOOK LIKE THIS⇒⇒⇒⇒⇒⇒⇒⇒⇒⇒⇒⇒⇒⇒⇒⇒

I don’t know about you ladies, but I am rarely happy with my hair. Now it is dry, dry, dry and because it is naturally curly – FRIZZ BOMB! I always walk a little more confidently when I believe my haircut looks good. Is this just me, or do you feel the same way? Can you comment below? I’d love to hear about your HAIR NIGHTMARE or all about your HAIR CARE. Other women would too!

How About Some Natural Products for Taking Special Care?

I was researching products (natural) and came across Madison Reed. I have tried two of their products, the color reviving gloss and hair color. I was very happy with the results, but will probably lighten the color a bit on the next order.

A Couple of Things That Affect Your Hair As You Age

I’m sure I don’t have to tell you that your hair changes as you age. Usually, after your 40th birthday it starts behaving badly. The color changes…pigment cells in the follicles die, reducing melanin and leaving behind transparent colors like gray, silver and white.

The density changes. Many women experience thinning and some have significant hair loss. This has more to do with genes than anything. The decrease in estrogen production contributes to density loss also.

Shine and texture surely change and personally, that is the area I am looking at right now. Like I said, I tried Madison Reed and I’m going to sick with this ‘free of ammonia, resorcinol, parabens, phthalates, gluten & PPD-crafted in Italy-delivered to your door’ company. They have great, natural products, a very well-designed website, and a flawless delivery system. Take a look! Find your perfect color now!

Thrive! OK?….. Robin

P.S. Argan Oil is considered the best, natural conditioner for your hair, face, skin, and nails. Read about this product and see if it will help you in any way. It has great reviews and a good price!

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Pictures of Short Haircuts for Women Over 50

HC_1 HC_2 HC_3 HC_4
HC_6 HC_16 HC_18 HC_14 HC_15 HC_11 HC_12 HC_8

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Uncategorized

Laughter Is Good Exercise – Here’s 8 Reasons Why

Three years ago I completed my Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology – Life Coaching. I only mention it because I am 60 years old and want to say, “Go for it ladies!” Don’t let age stop you from anything you want to accomplish! I had to do a video presentation for my Communications class and I chose to do it on LAUGHTER is the best medicine! Where would I be without it? How about you?

My video presentation was entitled “Laughter is Medicinal.” I’m sure you have heard that it is the BEST medicine. But did you know that it is great EXERCISE too?!? Yes! Let me tell you the facts! How does laughing make you feel? Can you remember a time when you laughed so hard your belly hurt, your throat constricted and tears ran down your face? According to the Association for Applied and Therapeutic Humor and studies done at the University of Maryland, these responses, along with others, hold many health benefits. Now for the facts!

8 Ways Laughter Is Good Exercise

1) It reduces stress hormones, which boosts the immune system.

2) While laughing, natural killer cells, called T-cells and B-cells, are increased. They destroy tumors and viruses in the body.

3) It protects the heart. Researchers have determined that laughing 100 times is equal to riding a bike for 15 minutes – cardiovascular exercise! This explains why you are often tired after a good laugh. So… a minute of laughing or 15 minutes on a bike?

4) When you laugh, blood receives oxygen; so, blood flow is increased and blood pressure is lowered.

5) Laughter is healing for the mind and emotions. It adds joy and zest to life!

6) Laughing can provide the needed release when we find ourselves overloaded with negative emotions such as anger, stress, sadness or fear.

7) It promotes a feeling of well-being and can reduce pain. Helpguide.org states, “Laughing releases endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good chemicals.”

8) Laughter is related to making and strengthening our human connections. It feels good to laugh with people. It adds to our sense of well-being.

I can personally attest to the healing power of laughter. I had a volatile upbringing, but somehow, humor became an integral part of my life. I was voted ‘class clown’ and ‘wittiest’ in my senior year of high school in 1975 and MC’d a few comedy fund raisers. I know firsthand that laughter holds great medicinal value.

In closing, I’d like to quote Patch Adams, a medical doctor who uses humor in his care of patients. “Remember laughing? Laughter enhances the blood flow to the body’s extremities and improves cardiovascular function. Laughter releases endorphins and other natural mood elevating and pain-killing chemicals, improves the transfer of oxygen and nutrients to internal organs. Laughter boosts the immune system and helps the body fight off disease and cancer cells, as well as viral, bacterial and other infections.”

So Ladies… One minute of laughing, or 15 minutes on a bike? Your choice! By the way, if you haven’t seen Patch Adams with Robin Williams, it’s a must see!

Works Cited
http://health.howstuffworks.com/mental-health/human-nature/otheremotions/laughter.htm
http://www.helpguide.org/life/humor_laughter_health.htm
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Patch_Adams

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Brain / Forgiveness / Relationships

Diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease – A Whole New World

When someone receives a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease, a whole new world opens up; both for the one diagnosed and for those in their circle, everything changes. My mom died five years ago this June. She had a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease. Thankfully, she didn’t lose all her capabilities. She told the same stories over and over, ones she enjoyed. Ones that made her laugh. She still had a wit about her. Continue reading…

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Home

Relaxation

I will be submitting an AudiobooksNow and Amazon Audible Review just below for your consideration.

We need to afford ourselves some time apart from the demands of life and relax. That looks different for each of us. One woman’s way to relax might be sailing over cliffs and ocean strapped in a hand glider, while the same woman might be having an anxiety attack just sitting around by the pool.

We are all so different. The important thing is to know what relaxes you and make sure you make time for it in your day. Let’s take a look at reading, or then again, listening….

AudiobooksNow Review and Amazon Audible Review

Ok… I am providing you with an AudiobooksNow review, and an Amazon Audible review. I’ll compare both of the programs and let you decide which is the best deal for you. At the end of the review, I will show you what it looks like to buy the top four books from the New York Times Audible Best Seller List.

AudiobooksNow gives you a Free 30-day Trial. With the trial, your regular $5-a-month membership fee is waived, and you get full benefits: 50% off your first audiobook and sale price (up to 40% off ) for the rest of the month.

Audible (Amazon’s audiobook club) also gives you a Free 30-day Trial and adds 2 free audiobooks (with the link below). After the 30 days your fee is $14.95 a month, which entitles you to an audiobook of your choice, plus 30% savings on other selections.

The Top 4 Audiobooks on the NY Times Best Seller List Are:

The Gangster – AudiobooksNow/$22.50/$15.75/$11.25

Audible/$31.50/FREE

All the Light We Can Not See – AudiobooksNow/$23.99/$16.79/$12.00

Audible/$22.67/$15.87

The Girl On The Train – AudiobooksNow/$20.00/$14.00/$10.00

Audible/$28.00/FREE

The Nightingale – AudiobooksNow/$26.99/$18.89/$13.50

Audible/$31.49/$22.04

For AudiobooksNow, the first price is their regular price, the second is their sale price, and the third is their club price. Amazon puts out their regular price, with an option to get the book FOR FREE with their trial offer. Here you will get 2 free books. On their site, only 1.

BOTTOM LINE:

If you buy the books during the trial offer, you will pay $60.04 with AudiobooksNow and with Audible, you will pay $37.91. After the 30 days, if you were to buy the same four books again, with AudiobooksNow you would pay $5 membership + 13.50+ 15.75 + 16.79 + 14.00 totaling $65.04. With Audible you will pay $14.95 membership + 0 + 19.60 + 15.87 + 22.04 totaling $72.46.

There is one other neat plan with AudiobooksNow. It is called their 50% Off 12 Club Plan and it is $36 (Renewable). The first 12 audiobooks you purchase through this plan will be 50% off, then you will receive the normal Club Price (between 25-40% off). You can purchase all 12 audiobooks whenever you’d like and renew the plan as often as you’d like. The 50% Off 12 audiobooks plan can be renewed when you run out of your 50% discounts.

That seems like the deal if you read a lot! So you pay $36 up front and get 12 books at 50% off. $36/12 is $3 each book. If you bought those four books again under this plan, they would cost 12.00 + 11.25 + 12.00 + 10.00 + 13.50 totaling $58.75.

I hope this information is useful to you. I did the math for you and you can decide. They are both good programs. If you belong to Amazon Prime, you may even get a better deal with Audible. Either way… Relax, Read, and

Thrive! OK?! …. Robin

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Body Image

Body image is something we all struggle with… looking in the mirror can make us want to close our eyes…even more so the older we get. Things start sagging, metabolism slows, weight creeps up, hair grows where we don’t want it to, and the list goes on.

Some of us take these changes pretty hard and a few can laugh them off. To be honest, I think most of us really have to meet aging challenges head on and decide how we will live in light of them.

Body Image Exercise 1 – Look in the Mirror

As your first body exercise, please take 2-5 minutes, look yourself in the eyes in a mirror and say, “You are beautiful.” Look deep into your eyes. Breathe. Be still. Feel the emotions that come. Go ahead. I’ll wait… Share your experience in the comments section if you’d like. Other women may need to hear. The truth is… You ARE beautiful!

We all have different priorities when it comes to our appearance. One may have impeccable taste in clothing but “What color lipstick is that?!?” “And why is it on your teeth?”

I hope to cover as many areas dealing with appearance as we all need. Right now for me it’s turkey neck! UGH! My grandmother had one, my mom had one and now I carry on the sad sag. Click here for some free tips and exercises for turkey neck.

Feel free to comment and request an area that you’d like to see covered. I’d love to research it and put it on the site. (and maybe add my own 2 cents)!

Like I said, I just started this site on Valentie’s Day, I’m not retired yet, and there’s so much to do and learn! In the meantime…think about what you would like your life to look like right now. No, seriously! Think about it. Can we give ourselves just a 5-minute think session and ask ourselves, “What would I like my life to look like right now?” Go. I’ll wait…….Please comment below .

Thrive! OK?,

Robin

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Brain

brain

Because I noticed a decline in my own memory and my mom was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, the brain became an area of interest to me.

I studied Gerontology on the way to my Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and did some online research. The brain is fascinating!

I want to keep as much of mine as possible. How about you?

I will be sharing what the experts are saying and then provide some tools for you to exercise your brain.

How to Improve Your Memory and Increase Your Brain Health

I have read quite a bit of information pertaining to brain health, memory loss, and memory enhancement. I am going to list a general consensus of the top 5 ways to improve your memory and increase your brain health. These are confirmed by the Alzheimer’s Assoc., Psychology Today, brainhealth.gov and the AARP. They are in no particular order.

Healthy Diet

Exercise

Sleep

Social Engagement

Keeping Your Brain Active

HEALTHY DIET

Wherever you turn these days, there is a new diet being advertised. I am not going to advertise one here! Instead, I am going to appeal to what you already know. But please remember that a healthy diet rich in Omega 3’s is one of the best ways to increase memory and improve brain function.

Fruits and vegetables are tops.
Whole grains, seeds, and nuts (easy on the nuts) are healthy.
Fish and poultry (mostly) and lean meats (occasionally) in 4 oz. portions are great protein sources.
Healthy fats like olive & coconut oil and organic butter (sparingly) are good.
A fish (krill) oil supplement is recommended to improve your memory. See my pick here.
NO soda! (One of the worst things to put into your body) regular OR diet.
Fried foods, chips, candy, alcohol – you know the list – are not good for you. ONCE in a WHILE in tiny doses if you must.

EXERCISE

We know this right? It’s a must ladies and it doesn’t have to be hard. I mean, did you read my blog on Laughter? It’s exercise!! That’s right. Anyway, you have to find something you enjoy that engages your body. Walking, gardening, yoga, cycling etc. are a few examples. It is particularly beneficial to get your heart rate up a bit because it increases blood flow to the brain. Brain health is what we want here right?

SLEEP

Your body rejuvenates while you sleep, and this includes your brain. Your brain ‘resets’ while you sleep, allowing you to gain fresh insight into problems and increasing your creativity. Your memory is enhanced, even by just 4 to 6 hours of good, sound sleep. Sleep tight!

SOCIAL ENGAGEMENT

It is good for your brain for you to be involved with other people. Volunteering brings feelings of happiness and well-being, increasing brain health. Social activities are linked to reduced risk for some health problems, including dementia.

KEEPING YOUR BRAIN ACTIVE

There are many ways to keep your brain active. One way is to continue learning. This is high on the list of increasing brain health. Finishing your degree, taking a class, reading a book, attending a seminar etc. are just a few examples. Here are some courses that may interest you.

Remember girls, a little change can make a big difference!

Thrive! OK? …..

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