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In this age of technology, so much information is available literally at our fingertips. We can read or listen to amazing information that will help and inspire us. We can choose what we read. We can tune out negative influences and focus on reading whatever we want. When you read or listen to a book, you spend time with the author. Reading and pondering books written by people who have overcome challenges and succeeded is inspiring and motivating. It makes me want to be better. Consistent and focused reading of scripture is an amazing way for me to renew my spirit and be inspired. We all have the ability to control much of what we let come into our minds. If we want to feel positive, we need to intentionally limit our contact with negative people and intentionally choose to be around positive people and influences. –John Bledsoe
SIMPLE WAYS TO MANAGE STRESS 3 T hings to T ry R ight N ow Stress can come at us from any angle. Sometimes, it’s triggered by something simple like dirty dishes in the sink. Other times it’s something more complicated, like your ex being late in dropping off the kids, that causes stress to arise. Or you might be experiencing stress from being cooped up inside all day and social distancing. No matter the source of your stress, you can find relief in some very simple things. While none of these is a cure-all for stress, every little thing helps. Watch a cat video. When that stress starts to hit or something’s bothering you, find a quick distraction. One great option is to watch animal videos, like cute cat videos. When we watch them, our brain releases the “feel good” hormone oxytocin. It’s the same hormone that is released when we spend time with our favorite furry companion. When oxytocin is released in the brain, levels of cortisol (a stress hormone) are reduced. Cat videos (and dog videos, too) boost our mood and our energy, helping alleviate feelings of stress. Shine on. Reducing stress can be as simple as sitting in the sun. Natural light has been found to increase the production of positive hormones in the brain, like those mentioned above. The bright light also triggers the release of orexin, a neuropeptide that helps control the feeling of being alert. All you have to do is take a brief walk in the sun and you’ll be left feeling refreshed! Plus, sunlight boosts vitamin D production. A lack of vitamin D can negatively impact your mood, so getting some sun can make a huge difference. If you’re stuck inside all day working, make some time to sit outside for a while every day. Drink up. One of the best things you can do for your body and your stress level right this second is drink a glass of water. When we’re dehydrated, our bodies become stressed. This stress leads to fatigue and confusion. And the more dehydrated we get, the worse the symptoms. Even minor dehydration can have a profound impact on stress. When you feel stress coming on, whether physical or mental, reach for the water. Staying hydrated every day is critical!
SPRINGTIME CACIO E PEPE
Inspired by Eating Well
Nothing is more comforting than a big bowl of cacio e pepe , which is Italian for cheese and pepper. This dish combines a wholesome flavor profile with fresh, seasonal ingredients to satisfy any craving.
INGREDIENTS
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 6 oz multigrain spaghetti • 8 oz fresh asparagus, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/2 tsp black pepper • 1 cup baby arugula
• 1 tbsp olive oil • 1 tsp lemon zest
DIRECTIONS
1. Heat oven to 425 F. 2. In a large pot, cook spaghetti until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of water before draining and put spaghetti in a covered pot to keep warm. 3. Line a 15x10-inch baking pan with foil and toss in asparagus and olive oil. 4. Cook asparagus for 5–7 minutes and sprinkle with lemon zest. 5. Add 3/4 cup of the reserved water, Parmesan cheese, and pepper to the spaghetti. Stir until creamy. 6. Toss in asparagus and arugula before serving.
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