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PLANT THAT TREE
“The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second-best time is now.”
It’s a simple yet profound reminder to get off our rear ends and take action, even if we missed the perfect moment.
Sometimes, we look back and wish we had started sooner. Maybe it’s a project, something we wanted to learn, dropping a few pounds, picking up a new hobby, or even something simple like calling someone we haven’t spoken to in a while. But when we dwell on the opportunities we let slip away, we focus on the wrong idea — our lack of progress. That’s not productive; it feeds our regrets. Instead, we should focus on the present — the only moment we can control. Today is a new opportunity to take that first step, to “plant that tree” we didn’t plant before. Sure, it would have been ideal to start earlier. Imagine how tall that tree would have reached if it had been planted two decades ago. But does that mean we should give up on planting altogether? Absolutely not. Why do we wait? Lots of reasons: Anxiety, fear of failure, perfectionism, or paralysis by analysis. For whatever reason, the timing isn’t quite right. But waiting for the perfect moment is pointless. There will always be obstacles, uncertainties, and reasons to procrastinate. The key is recognizing that the perfect moment may never arrive and start anyway. When we take action, even small steps forward, we set a chain of events in motion that can lead to remarkable outcomes. As the old quote says, “The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.”
measured by what we collect for ourselves but by what we leave behind for others.
So, whether it’s pursuing our dreams, investing in relationships, or making other positive changes in the world, let’s not wait for the perfect moment. Instead, let’s create it ourselves right now. Take the first step on something you’ve been thinking about or putting off. If it’s not planting a tree, maybe it’s sowing the seeds of kindness, support, and generosity in some other area of your life. Move forward today, even if it’s only a baby step. To pull it all together and to stay with our tree analogy, I’ll leave you with this solemn but selfless reflection about trees and life: “Blessed is he who plants trees under whose shade he will never sit.”
Or, more fitting to our tree analogy, every tree begins with a humble seed.
And remember, when we plant trees — or metaphorical seeds of change — we’re not just benefiting ourselves. We’re contributing to something greater than ourselves, something that extends far beyond our lifetimes.
That tree we plant today promises shade and shelter for us and generations to come. It reminds us that our legacy is not
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MichiganEstatePlans.com • 888.487.6150
THE PHYSICAL AND MENTAL GAINS OF RETRO WALKING REVERSE YOUR ROUTINE
Psychologists and self-help gurus say it doesn’t help to dwell on where you’ve been. But what if walking backward — literally — could benefit your health? According to a 2023 CNN health report, walking backward is a unique exercise regimen with potential advantages for your joints. Contrary to traditional forward walking, retro walking, as it is often referred to, engages different muscle groups, fosters improved balance, and contributes to overall fitness in various ways. One of the primary benefits is the engagement of muscle groups not heavily used in forward walking. When walking backward, you use your hamstrings, calves, and glutes to a greater extent. This variance in muscle engagement can lead to enhanced strength and toning, providing a good workout. Walking backward can be particularly beneficial for those recovering from injuries and/or dealing with joint issues. The unique motion of retro walking puts less strain on the knees, making it a safer alternative for damaged joints that still delivers cardiovascular benefits through a low-impact workout.
As people age, balance and coordination are crucial components of overall fitness. Retro
walking challenges both brain and body to adapt to a different spatial orientation, enhancing coordination. For older adults looking to maintain or improve their balance, retro walking can be a tactic to reduce the risks of falls and related injuries. Just start slow. The psychological benefits of walking backward also cannot be overlooked. It’s just plain fun to walk backward, and the low stakes of this exercise can excite those doing it to continue adhering to it. While walking backward may seem unconventional, the benefits are compelling. From targeted muscle engagement to reduced joint impact and enhanced balance, incorporating retro walking into your fitness routine can be a valuable addition. As always, it’s best to ask your primary care physician if it would suit your unique needs.
The Importance of Nutritious Intake
Maintaining a balanced diet is crucial for preserving physical and mental health, ultimately enhancing longevity. Nevertheless, many older adults cannot obtain adequate nutrition and calories. Aging brings about physiological changes that can diminish calorie requirements, decrease food consumption, and alter body composition, even in healthy individuals. Furthermore, chronic ailments such as heart disease, stroke, Parkinson’s disease, cancer, diabetes, and dementia can significantly impact appetite, energy needs, and weight management. Medications can also interfere with nutrient absorption or induce adverse effects like nausea, vomiting, and alterations in sensory perception. Oral and dental issues further complicate matters by impairing chewing and swallowing functions. These factors contribute to reduced calorie and nutrient intake, resulting in unintended weight loss and diminished energy levels.
Opting for healthy fats can provide a concentrated source of nutritious calories. Examples of beneficial fats include olive oil, canola oil, nuts, avocado, and fatty fish like salmon, sardines, and mackerel. Conversely, limiting the consumption of unhealthy saturated fats, particularly those found in fatty red meats, is advisable. Additionally, incorporating fiber into the diet promotes regular bowel function and reduces the risk of type two diabetes and heart disease. The Institute of Medicine
recommends a daily fiber intake of at least 30 grams for men and 21 grams for women over 50. Excellent sources of fiber include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds. For individuals with dental issues or dentures, opting for easier-to-chew options like whole-grain bread and beans is advisable. Increasing fluid intake when boosting fiber consumption is essential to support digestive health. When managing portion sizes, individuals aiming to maintain a healthy body weight should focus on reducing portions rather than eliminating components of a balanced meal. Conversely, those seeking weight should increase portions instead of consuming foods high in added sugars and unhealthy saturated fats. Ultimately, a balanced diet tailored to individual needs, regular physical activity, and medical guidance form healthy aging. Embracing these dietary principles can help older adults extend their quality of life and enhance their resilience against age‑related health challenges.
MichiganEstatePlans.com • 888.487.6150
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HIDDEN HAZARDS The Dirty Truth About Water Bottles
Germs, invisible to the naked eye yet present in our daily lives, play a significant role in shaping our health and well-being. From the microscopic bacteria that inhabit our bodies to the fungi and viruses that lurk in our surroundings, germs profoundly impact our immune systems and overall health. Understanding the nature of these tiny organisms is crucial in maintaining hygiene and preventing the spread of illness. Germs can even be hidden in places we might not think they do, such as inside your water bottle. Reusable water bottles have recently become increasingly popular, offering environmental benefits and improved hydration. However, neglecting to clean your glass, stainless steel, or plastic bottle can pose potential health risks, warns Benjamin Turner, a Biology instructor at The University of Alabama at Birmingham. Mold thrives in moist environments, with spores settling and forming visible patches in areas with accumulated water. While some molds are harmless, others can trigger allergic reactions and respiratory issues. S. Wesley Long, M.D., from Houston Methodist, assures that off-putting odors or tastes would typically deter consumption before causing illness, but immunocompromised individuals should exercise caution. Additionally, bacteria can grow inside water bottles, as the mouth hosts a high concentration of microbes. Peter Iwen, a microbiologist at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, explains how these germs can form a biofilm inside bottles, potentially leading to transmission if shared, particularly for viruses like COVID-19. To mitigate these risks, regular cleaning is essential. Using hot water and soap daily
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Helpful Resources • Is your estate plan up to date? Ask us about our FREE Estate Planning Checkup. Call our office or email Julie@mtolaw.com. • Don’t miss Glenn on “Senior Law Radio,” WHMI FM 93.5 every Sunday at 8 a.m. You can also listen live (or to previous shows) on WHMI.com. • Questions about your money? Do you need help with your financial goals, investment management, or retirement planning? Glenn has partnered with his personal financial advisor, Brad Jerome, to bring expert financial services to our clients. Brad meets with you right in our office — no cost, no obligation, and no pressure — just an opportunity to discuss your goals with a top-notch financial advisor to see where your path might lead. You can reach Brad directly at 517.301.3070. • Let us be your trusted advisor for all your legal matters. We’ve grown with the referrals we receive from our clients. We want to return the favor by helping you find a great attorney outside of estate planning, elder law, and probate. Our clients often call us in need of an attorney who focuses on personal injury, auto accidents, elder and nursing home abuse, workers’ compensation, Social Security disability, and many other areas. To get the best results, you need an experienced attorney to help. If you want a referral, call our office or email Julie@mtolaw.com. We are glad to help!
and weekly sanitization using methods like vinegar soaking or dishwasher cycles helps prevent microbial buildup.
Another helpful tip is choosing bottles with
wide mouthpieces, preferably stainless steel over plastic, which aids in easier cleaning and reduces biofilm formation, according to Iwen.
It’s crucial to avoid leaving bottles in warm environments, as bacteria
thrive in such conditions. Refraining from reusing disposable bottles is advised, as plastic
degradation accelerates bacterial colonization. By adopting these practices, we can enjoy the benefits of reusable water bottles while safeguarding our health.
MichiganEstatePlans.com • 888.487.6150
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MichiganEstatePlans.com • 888.487.6150 915 N. Michigan Avenue, Suite 6 Howell, Michigan 48843
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What’s Inside? 1 Planting the Tree of Success
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Retracing Your Steps for Better Health
Healthy Eating Habits for Older Adults
Protect Yourself From the Germs Hiding in Your Water Bottle
Helpful Resources
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3 Lifestyle Changes to Slow the Aging Process
3 PROVEN WAYS TO SLOW DOWN THE CLOCK
Age happens naturally, but that doesn’t mean we enjoy the process. Most people don’t want to look older than they feel. If you count yourself among them, you can do a few things to slow down the process. No. 1: Stop Eating Sugar It’s time to finally master that sweet tooth — sugar ages you. It reacts to protein and causes “glycation,” which leads skin to wrinkle and cells to harden. Sugar also hardens collagen, stiffening skin. The more you consume, the more likely you are to suffer these adverse effects. No. 2: Quit Drinking Alcohol While most Americans drink alcohol, it can accelerate aging significantly. The substance damages telomeres, the part of a cell associated with aging. If telomeres get too short, they can’t divide, so they start dying. This happens naturally over time, but alcohol consumption hastens the process. No. 3: Lather on the Sunscreen The sun gives us life, but it also gives us UV rays. They break down collagen, causing wrinkles while increasing the risk of skin cancer. Even if you’re
just running errands, put on sunscreen. Light gets in through windshields and windows.
How aging progresses depends on lifestyle choices. While it’s inevitable, making the right changes can support a healthier body in the transition. So, if you avoid sweets, alcohol, and UV rays, you’re doing a great job protecting your body from the ravages of time.
Offices: Howell | Clinton Township
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