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THE SILVER LINING To Your Life & Health
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KNOWLEDGE IS POWER
It’s Never Too Late to Learn Something New
I always try to learn something new and share my knowledge. Exploring topics, ideas, and beliefs that interest us often opens the door to new experiences, thought processes, and perspectives. This is not some groundbreaking idea; many of us have been hearing the phrase “knowledge is power” since we were little kids. Yet, too many of us don’t try to learn about the world around us, historical situations, and the inner workings of our minds. April 9 is National Education and Sharing Day, which gives us an excellent opportunity to explore fresh ideas and learn something new! I would love to say I’m an avid reader, but that wouldn’t necessarily be the whole truth. I’m more of an audiobook guy and regularly use Audible to find new reads that relate to my interests. My Audible library is outrageous. I have so many books in my library list that you wouldn’t know where to start if you took over my account. What happens is that I’ll be listening to a book when GQ releases a new “10 Essentials” video. These are videos of famous athletes or celebrities sharing things they can’t live without. Often, these individuals have great reading lists, which leads me to pick up whatever book they’re discussing, even if I’m
in the middle of something else. It’s happened time and time again. At one point, I decided to quit this habit and start focusing on one book at a time. This didn’t last long. Early into the attempt, I read an article explaining that reading multiple books at once was good because it helps your brain grow. Supposedly, it creates a perfect storm, allowing you to retain the knowledge better while providing your mind with a great workout. As the years have passed, I’ve realized I have an Audible problem. I have a yearly subscription, but I always go through my 13 titles halfway through the year, meaning I have to buy more. It’s probably a good problem to have! Nearly every book I read provides some type of knowledge I can use in real life. My library consists of history and psychology, with very few fiction options. I’m not really a fiction guy. I only read something fictitious when I’m actively trying to work on a skill. Someone may tell me a particular author is great at creating introductions, so I’ll read their stuff to see how I can recreate it. Even if you don’t like to read, you have so many ways to access information these days. Most of us always have phones with us to access
the internet. All it takes is to pull up Google and type in your question to get the answer to anything. The other side of learning new things and gaining information is to ask questions whenever you’re talking to someone discussing ideas you’re unfamiliar with. As part of my job, I host one-on-one Medicare seminars for new clients and those turning 65. I was explaining the process to a gentleman recently who stopped me mid-sentence to ask what I meant by copay or other industry-relevant terms. A lightbulb instantly went off in my head. How many people let me speak without understanding half the terminology I use? While it might be common knowledge to me, it isn’t for them. Now, I spend more time ensuring everyone understands what I’m talking about! If you’re not learning, you’re dying. Opportunities to gain knowledge are all around us every minute of every day. Stay committed
to your learning efforts! It’s the most surefire way to become the best version of yourself!
–Duane Hamilton
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Simple Solutions for a Calmer Mind Managing Anxiety in Midlife
As we age, life’s demands shift in ways that can heighten anxiety. Many older adults navigate significant changes — increased career demands, aging parents, and chronic health conditions. Hormonal shifts associated with aging, especially among women, can also amplify stress and unease. Common symptoms include irritability and panic, insomnia, trouble with memory and focus, and digestion problems. Fortunately, there are strategies to help you regain control and maintain your well-being. PRACTICE MINDFULNESS AND RELAXATION TECHNIQUES. Mindfulness techniques encourage you to focus on the present moment, which can counteract racing thoughts
and reduce feelings of worry. Mindfulness-based practices include meditation, deep breathing, and yoga. Even a few minutes of daily practice can make a big difference. STAY PHYSICALLY ACTIVE. Physical activity releases endorphins, which improve mood and reduce stress. Activities like walking, swimming, and tai chi can be ideal for older adults, as they are gentle on the body while providing mental health benefits. Aim for 30 minutes of activity most days of the week. MAINTAIN SOCIAL CONNECTIONS. Strong social ties are one of the most significant predictors of contentment. Reaching out to friends, family, and community groups reduces feelings of isolation
and can help manage anxiety. Consider joining a book club, taking a class, or volunteering — these help foster meaningful connections while keeping your mind engaged. SEEK PROFESSIONAL SUPPORT. If anxiety feels unmanageable, speaking with a therapist or counselor can help. Cognitive behavioral therapy is beneficial for anxiety, as it enables you to identify and reframe negative thought patterns. In some cases, a medical provider can prescribe helpful medication. Experiencing anxiety in your 50s and 60s is more common than you think, but it’s also manageable. Taking proactive steps today can lead to a calmer, more confident tomorrow.
When was the last time you had a good long laugh? It could have been while watching a stand-up special or a funny movie. Maybe your kid did something or told you a story that made you roar with laughter. Did you feel better after letting it loose? For years, people have stated that laughter is the best medicine, and there’s actually some truth behind the statement. When we laugh more often, our physical, mental, and emotional health all benefit. Since April is National Humor Month, it’s a great time to explore the benefits of laughing! PHYSICAL You probably wouldn’t assume laughing would boost your physical health, but it does in more ways than one. Laughter can increase antibody-producing cells, The Benefits of Humor for Your Body and Mind Laugh Your Way to Better Health
strengthening our immune system. Research has linked laughter to better heart health, with one study in particular demonstrating that daily laughter reduces the prevalence of conditions that affect your cardiovascular system. Other studies have found that laughter has the potential to ease pain, protect physical function, and strengthen our core. MENTAL AND EMOTIONAL Laughing makes us feel good; there’s no question about it. Scientific evidence supports this idea. Studies have shown that laughter can reduce feelings of stress, improve depression symptoms, and help us adjust our perspective to see certain situations more positively. Laughter also helps distract us from any of the negatives currently impacting our lives. SOCIAL Laughter and smiling are contagious. Once someone starts laughing, everyone else will soon follow suit, especially if they have a funny laugh! Sharing laughter is a quick way to meet new people and make friends. Laughter really does make life more enjoyable. If you find you’re having trouble laughing, revisit happy memories, watch a funny movie, or get together with friends for a game night. You’ll never look back once you start finding humor in things and add more laughter to your daily schedule!
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Tips to Maintain Mental Sharpness D on ’ t L et T ime S teal Y our S marts
of cognitive decline as we enter their senior years, but you can take action now to keep these symptoms at bay. Here are a few simple strategies to help keep your mind sharp as you age. NEVER STOP LEARNING. If you read this month’s cover article, you know knowledge is available to us around every corner. Take advantage of every opportunity. Complete crossword puzzles and other mind games, read books as often as possible, and research topics you’re unfamiliar with but interested in. Some colleges even offer free classes or tuition to seniors who live in the community. PUT MORE EFFORT INTO HEALTHY PRACTICES. Certain things we’ve been doing for years may actually hinder our minds
instead of supporting them. If you smoke or drink alcohol, try to cut back and limit your intake. Start paying more attention to what you eat, ensuring you get the proper nutrients in your diet. You need to include some physical activity in your weekly schedule and maximize your sleep. Also, try to join social hobbies that allow you to interact with others. DON’T WASTE YOUR BRAIN. Too many people use all their brain power on activities that won’t really benefit them, so they feel mentally drained when they start reading or taking care of something around the house. If you spend too much time scrolling social media or watching TV, find more beneficial and active hobbies to fill your time.
Our bodies experience many changes as we grow older. Our skin may become more wrinkled and drier, hair often becomes thinner or turns gray, and our vision, hearing, and senses of taste and smell start to decline. The list goes on and on. Most people will stick to a healthier diet and a regular exercise routine to put off the physical symptoms of aging, but what about the mental symptoms? As you age, you may notice lapses in your memory, have difficulty making simple decisions, or take longer to process information or solve a problem. Time is not going to stop for any of us. Most will experience some level Did you know...I help families get out of debt, and live L.I.F.E. L ive I nterest F ree E veryday What if I could show you how to get out of debt in 10 years or less on average, including your mortgage, without spending any additional money than you are spending right now? Interested...CALL me today!!! 770-744-1855 I mportant A nnouncement :
K eto L emon G arlic B utter C hicken
Inspired by DietDoctor.com
INGREDIENTS • 4 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on • Salt and pepper, to taste • 2 tbsp olive oil • 2 tbsp unsalted butter • 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth • 2 tbsp heavy cream • 1 lemon, zest and juice • 2 tbsp chopped parsley, for garnish
DIRECTIONS 1. Preheat oven to 400 F and season chicken with salt and pepper. 2. Heat olive oil in an oven-proof skillet over medium heat. Sear chicken skin-side down until crispy, about 5 minutes. Flip and cook 2 more minutes; remove from skillet and set aside. 3. Melt butter in skillet, then sauté garlic until fragrant. Add broth, cream, lemon juice, and zest. Simmer for 3 minutes. 4. Return chicken to skillet, spoon sauce over, and bake in oven for 15–20 minutes or until cooked through (165 F internal temperature). Garnish with parsley before serving.
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INSIDE THIS ISSUE
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Is Curiosity the Best Tool for Personal Growth?
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Your Guide to Conquer Anxiety Why You Should Laugh More Often How to Keep Your Brain Young Keto Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken
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Escape to Paradise: Savoring the Beauty and History of Antigua
a steep trail to Shirley Heights, 492 feet above sea level, to enjoy a panoramic view across the sea. Among Antigua’s unique attractions is the centuries-old artisan craft of forming tamarind seeds into jewelry and home decor. The island is also home to one of the rarest fruits in the world, the Antigua black pineapple, which is sweet and delicious sliced fresh or in jelly form. Also, a weekly archaeological tour called “Rum in the Ruins” offers a history of the sugar trade and the island’s famous rum. Antigua’s Summer Carnival is one of the most popular in the world. The celebration began when people took to the streets in 1834 to celebrate the emancipation of enslaved people and independence from England. Visitors to the Carnival today can enjoy wildly colorful costumes and 10 days of music, dancing, and parades. Among the most memorable experiences are steel band competitions playing calypso and soca music.
Discover the Endless Beaches and Vibrant Culture of Antigua JOURNEY THROUGH TIME
Can you imagine escaping to a tropical island where you can visit a different beach every day for a year without ever seeing the same one twice? It’s not a fantasy. It’s Antigua. Antigua has long been known for its 365 beaches, from Halfmoon Bay’s silvery sands to Galley Bay Beach’s surfing waves. Unique for its history and native crafts, this eastern Caribbean island is rich in recreational and cultural attractions, as well as natural beauty. Christopher Columbus encountered Antigua in 1493, and the British subsequently colonized the island and neighboring Barbuda in the 1600s.
Barbuda was originally planned as a slave-breeding colony, but the enslaved people brought to the island rebelled against colonial rule. After years of domination by the United Kingdom, Antigua and Barbuda achieved independence as a single nation in 1981. Although Antigua covers only 108 square miles, it has a rich history and cultural traditions. Nelson’s Dockyard National Park offers archaeological sites and more than 12 miles of hiking trails. The 8th of March Project commemorates the lives of enslaved and free Africans who labored on the docks for centuries. Energetic hikers can make their way up
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