Women. This is what you need to know to defend yourselves
Be confident, be aware, be strong, be prepared. Then go for the vision, wind, and limbs. Self-defense lessons from a police officer that could save your life.
Found at the farmers market: Unusual cukes, peppers, tomatillos and something sweet
A few weeks ago, I introduced you to Jamaican Burr Gherkins and now I've got a few more interesting vegetables to share with you. All from the Farmers Market in Burlington, Vermont.
Squat to stand: A fitness tip from Andy
Looking for a fitness move that doesn't require a lot of hard work or time? Here's a quick one that just might do the trick.
What you may not know about sleep apnea
The stereotype of someone with sleep apnea is a middle-aged obese man. Those two factors certainly increase the risk, but sleep apnea can occur in anyone, at any age. The American Sleep Apnea Association recently conducted a survey that helps increase our understanding of the many challenges associated with sleep apnea, which is far more common than you may realize.
Why 16 weeks of paid parental leave made sense to a Portland, Maine law firm
A Portland law firm recently expanded its parental leave benefits to be more inclusive and more flexible and to provide more time off (with pay) for new parents. It now has what it considers an extremely progressive policy.
Learning about leukemia the hardest way
Sometimes, it only takes seconds for life to change dramatically. That is all it took for the Cochrane family. A day that began like any other ended in a nightmare and has not been the same since.
Living with grief: What to say to someone who is grieving
Have you ever wanted to say something to someone who is grieving but don't? You can't find the right words so you say nothing. In the final segment of Living with Grief, we get some loving words of advice from several people who are grieving the loss of a loved one.
Take a walk, learn some Maine history
Did you know that Maine played a significant role in the production of gunpowder during the Civil War? I discovered this bit of history while walking on a beautiful trail in Gorham.
Living with grief: Disenfranchised grief
The definition of grief is deep sorrow, but not all people feel it when a significant person in their life dies. They may feel relief, sadness about what never was, shame, anger, guilt, or nothing at all. In part four of Living with Grief, we talk about such feelings and what is called disenfranchised grief.
How to be financially fit no matter what your age
Whether you're a college senior or going to senior college, you can relieve some worry and stress by becoming more financially fit. We have some fitness tips from two experts — one on wellness and the other on money.
Living with grief: John Tewhey’s story
John and Gloria Tewhey had been together close to 60 years when she was diagnosed with leukemia. The end of this month marks the first anniversary of her death. It's been a difficult year for the whole family. John shares their story in Part Three of Living with Grief.
Living with grief: Jackie Conn’s story
Jackie Conn's husband Tim died February 18, 2018, after suffering a massive stroke. They were always there for each other. Now she often feels as if she's drifting. I don't even know who I am anymore, she told me. Jackie shares her story in part two of Living with Grief.
Fitness tips courtesy of a toddler
Couldn't make it to the gym but it doesn't matter. That's because I spent the day with my two-year-old granddaughter. No time for sitting still!
Living with grief
Grief is a natural response to loss and yet how we react can feel anything but normal. We worry that we're doing it wrong, taking too long, crying too much, feeling too numb. As we'll find out in Part One of a special series on Living with Grief, there is no right or wrong way to grieve.
Easy ways to stretch your hip flexors and why you should
Your hip flexors help you walk, run, dance, do all kinds of important things. If you sit a lot, you're not doing them any favors. Here are some simple exercises to give them a good stretch.
Guess the mystery vegetable I found at the Farmers’ Market
I love going to the Farmers' Market and filling my bags with good food. Check out what's in season and guess the mystery vegetable.
Don’t ignore a slightly high calcium level. It could mean hyperparathyroidism
For years, Luanne Cameron knew her calcium ran slightly high. Only recently did she find out it was a sign that she had a problem with her parathyroid glands. She shares her story so that others won't go through what she did.
Leg pain after exercise could mean a vein problem
It's not normal for your legs to hurt. If you've just started a new exercise routine they may be sore for a few days. But if your legs hurt even if you just go for a walk, it could be a sign that you have a vein problem.
Loneliness among elderly people who live in rural areas
Loneliness is a huge issue for many people, including elderly people. Imagine living in a rural area where access to resources and human contact may be limited. A recent summit focused on the problem and possible solutions.
Benefits of walking in the city (of Portland, Maine)
A good part of my working day is spent sitting in front of a computer. I try to practice what I preach and move around as much as possible. My new workspace has provided me with lots of opportunities. Let's go for a short walk together.
Staying positive with ALS: An update on George Smith
More than a year has passed since well-known Maine sportsman and columnist George Smith found out he had ALS. As the disease progresses, it takes things away from him, but his sense of humor and optimistic nature remain steadfast.
What it means to recover after exercise and how to do it
Sore after you exercise? A little light activity may help you recover. Learn the difference between good and bad sore and what it means to recover.
Lisa loves her yellow beans and Jan prefers green
A quick trip to the local Farmers' Market and I came away with some great green and yellow bean lessons and recipes.
If you pee when you sneeze or exert yourself, your hips may be partly to blame
Two physical therapists at the University of New England believe that weak pelvic floor and hip muscles both contribute to a common form of incontinence in women. They've designed a study and are looking for participants. Read more ...
Charlotte’s thread and how it almost cut her kitty life short
Cats love to play with string and thread, but did you know they can be deadly? I know because my cat Charlotte nearly used up all nine lives at once, thanks to a piece of thread. Read what happened.
Dancing, Zumba, and hoola hoops — all good!
What do dancing, Zumba, and hoola hoops have in common? They all get you moving, which is something we need to do as often as possible. Here is some inspiration
Enjoying Maine’s fabulous produce — safely
Concern about chemicals used in farming has many folks opting for organic produce, which can be helpful, but isn’t the end to the story
Tips on how to take good care of your back
Did you know that when your back hurts, it's trying to tell you something? Learn to understand the language of your spine and maybe your days of dealing with back pain will come to an end.
Let’s do the 2018 Dance Mile together!
Have some fun and move your body. That's what Dance Mile is all about. The Portland (Maine) Dance Mile is happening Saturday, July 14. Don't miss the chance to dance joyfully through the streets of Portland with 500 of your neighbors!
Improve your mood with regular exercise
Feeling low? I think we all do from time to time. Research shows that exercise may help — whether you're doing aerobic or resistance training.
Getting in touch with the emotional demands of Alzheimer’s by channeling Jackson Pollock
Alzheimer's disease is usually an emotional roller coaster not only for the person who has it but also for family and friends. While you can't let go of the disease, people can learn to let go of their emotions. One way is by expressing themselves through art.