It was Thursday, January 12 at 1:00 a.m. I stood in the kitchen holding my wife in my arms, her sobbing breaking the silence of the early morning. "I'm so scared." She said. Her bags were packed and the car was idling outside, both ready for her departure. We were not as ready. She was preparing to go on a mission trip with Awaken Haiti (www.awakenhaiti.com). She had never left our boys for more than 24 hours. She had no idea of what to expect in Haiti. She gets plane-sick. The fear was thick as we said our goodbyes. I was consciously reassuring, but I'm not sure that I masked my own fears. I wasn't worried about being a single parent for a week (I was confident in pizza take out and the durability of wearing jeans many days in a row). I was scared about my lack of control. I couldn't talk or communicate to her during this trip. I wouldn't know that she was ok. I couldn't care for or protect her. We were scared. We stood in the fear for a moment, prayed, and she left.
Fear is a powerful force. It's defined as a "distressing emotion by impending danger... whether the threat is real or imagined..." (dictionary.com). As a society, we don't like to recognize fear. We're conditioned to have a fear of fear. In turn, we make bumper stickers to negate the reality of fear, as some sort of invisible shield to ward of its effect on our Volkswagens. When we fail to recognize it, fear compels us toward addictions, avoidance, and apathy and drives us away from opportunity, trust, and courage. Often, fear is an emotion that we simply pretend isn't there, isn't real, and when we do this, fear is roots itself deeper in our backyards, poisoning the well.
Last week, the USA Today reported a story of an Alaskan couple who were out walking their two golden retrievers when a moose attacked the man, stomping him to the ground, breaking seven of his ribs in the process. When the moose came at her, she ran back to their truck, grabbed a shovel, and "hit it with everything [she] had." (USA Today, January 24, 2012).
Fear can be a healthy emotion. It allows us to sense danger, evaluate risk, and determine a response. Danger is a part of our world and fear is a tool to help us navigate through the choppy waters of risk. Mark Batterson, author of "In A Pit With A Lion On A Snowy Day" says, "The goal of life is not the elimination of fear. The goal is to muster the moral courage to [confront that fear]" (38). In fact, he says that in reflecting on our lives, we're more likely to regret the opportunities that we didn't seize, the ones that we missed sometimes because of fear, than those that we did and regretted. To achieve all that we've been created to be, we must find the courage to face our fears. Batterson says, "One courageous choice may be the only thing between you and your dream becoming a reality" (123).
Our friends, Jeff and Deb Denglinger felt a call to serve the people of Haiti a few years ago. As their role in developing Awaken Haiti began to crystallize, it became apparent to them that they were called to actually move to Haiti. Jeff had a successful construction business and they have three school aged children. The fear of moving to a place of such uncertainty and need was breathtaking. Yet, they sold everything and moved their family to Haiti. They entered the ocean of fear with a triple summersault dive.
Legendary boxing trainer Cus D'Amato said, "Heroes and cowards feel exactly the same fear. Heroes just react to it differently." Our mental health is best served when we identify the fear for what it is - an emotional response. From there, we can determine if the fear is resulting from something real or imagined. In turn, we can call on what's needed in response. It might be unlearning an irrational fear. It might be battling back an imagined fear with reality and truth. Or, it might be calling on something greater within us to not cower from the fear, but to stand against it and walk through it.
My wife went on her trip to Haiti. She was lonely, afraid, and scared in many ways. Yet, walking through that fear to serve others in Haiti offered her a life-changing experience. Most significantly, she observed that many Haitians who live in desolate and deplorable conditions, have an interesting response to their fears - joy. Their joy drowns their fears. My wife is finding new life in this truth only because she stood in her fear and made the trip to Haiti.
Likewise, the Denlingers are living new lives of significance, accessible only because they stepped into their fear of moving to Haiti. In their words, "We've been challenged to take back our faith from the American dream, to live life 'Wide Awake'... to live a life that demands an explanation..." This, an opportunity only available by diving into their fear.
The Alaskan couple escaped the moose attack, as did their dogs. The 85 year old woman who stood 5 feet tall and weighs 97 pounds faced fear and beat it back with a shovel.
Fear can be a violently destructive emotion that destroys lives, squelches opportunities, and numbs us to living life "wide awake." Or, it can be a healthy emotion that is a tool that we use to grow in courage, trust, and experience. Maybe the fear you face today isn't about packing up your family and moving to Haiti. Maybe it's about making healthier choices for your life, or a seizing a new opportunity that seems risky, or ending or starting a new relationship. Whatever the case, don't let fear be a barrier to a better you.
Author and blogger Ann Voskamp says this, "Today is always the best day to end the fears and begin being the best you... The relief is in the release of everything into the hands of God... abandon and abide - all is well."
Showing posts with label wellness. Show all posts
Showing posts with label wellness. Show all posts
Thursday, January 26, 2012
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Generic Wellness Won't Work
Typically, I'm a cost conscious guy. I'll always consider the mildly labeled product that reads, "Compare to... ABC brand” The generic alternative often offers me a nearly identical product at a lower cost. At the same time, I'm also a bit of a skeptic. I stand in the store aisle and read the label of any particular product, comparing the generic to the branded version and debate with myself, "While the ingredients read the same, they can't really be the same, can they? Certainly the branded version has a leg up in effectiveness or something, just look at the colorful marketing on the packaging." In many cases, I am wasting my time as the products are, in fact, seemingly identical. Yet, sometimes there is a difference. Take Rice Krispies for example. While the "Crisped Rice" version offers a cost savings, they just don't snap, crackle, and pop in the same way as their legendary counterpart. And maybe it's just me, but the bags of the generic cereal never seem to open easily. You pull and tug until the bags bursts on all sides, cereal spilling everywhere. English muffins are the same. While the generic offers something that looks very similar, Thomas' version has nooks and crannies abounding throughout while the knock off has a flattened surface allowing your spread to just melt and run off the top. In that case, I might as well just have had toast. While generic alternatives are often an economical option, it's in the details that you must pay close attention to not sacrifice quality.
Most health care dollars are spent on treatment as opposed to prevention. In fact, according to the PA Dept of Health, of every dollar spent on health care, only about 4 cents is spent on prevention and public health. In turn, most is spent on treating preventable diseases ($55.9 billion in PA). One such preventable disease is the obesity epidemic. According to a source report referenced by the PA Dept of Health, Pennsylvania's rank has dropped from the 22nd heaviest state (2009) to 19th heaviest (2011). In addition, 1 in 3 Pennsylvania babies born in 2000 will develop diabetes in their lifetime due to the obesity epidemic. This tragedy is relatively easy to address, yet we too often fail to make considerable progress. Why? Perhaps the solutions offered are too generic.
In the book, Switch, the Heath brothers talk about a particular community where there was a highly touted initiative to promote wellness and make their community healthier. In spite of considerable resources and funding, it failed. After reviewing their approach, they determined that the messaging was too generic. "Get Healthy," is ambiguous. Instead, they targeted one particular message. They asked people to make one, small change and switch from 2% milk to skim. The initiative was a success and the results were tangible and quantifiable in terms of improving the health of their community. The message wasn't generic, it was specific.
A place like the Y offers a vast array of health and wellness options. Recently, we've worked to consolidate our main messaging in our ongoing efforts to improve the nation's health and well-being. When you visit the Y, you can receive a refrigerator-friendly takeaway that outlines 3 simple steps to a healthier lifestyle. Detailed points are highlighted under the steps of Get Fit, You Are What You Eat, and Stay Motivated. Follow these three specific steps and you're likely to see results.
Seeking the generic can be an efficient approach to shopping. It's not effective in promoting health and wellness. The focus and the details matter. "Be healthier" or "exercise more" often aren't tangible enough to move anyone to action. Reduce sugary beverages from your diet and walk at least 30-60 minutes daily (even if it's around your workplace) are more practical.
As we enter 2012, I encourage you to be frugal and go with the generic when it makes sense. However, when it comes to pursuing a healthier lifestyle or, perhaps, choosing breakfast foods, be specific and don't sacrifice quality or results.
Most health care dollars are spent on treatment as opposed to prevention. In fact, according to the PA Dept of Health, of every dollar spent on health care, only about 4 cents is spent on prevention and public health. In turn, most is spent on treating preventable diseases ($55.9 billion in PA). One such preventable disease is the obesity epidemic. According to a source report referenced by the PA Dept of Health, Pennsylvania's rank has dropped from the 22nd heaviest state (2009) to 19th heaviest (2011). In addition, 1 in 3 Pennsylvania babies born in 2000 will develop diabetes in their lifetime due to the obesity epidemic. This tragedy is relatively easy to address, yet we too often fail to make considerable progress. Why? Perhaps the solutions offered are too generic.
In the book, Switch, the Heath brothers talk about a particular community where there was a highly touted initiative to promote wellness and make their community healthier. In spite of considerable resources and funding, it failed. After reviewing their approach, they determined that the messaging was too generic. "Get Healthy," is ambiguous. Instead, they targeted one particular message. They asked people to make one, small change and switch from 2% milk to skim. The initiative was a success and the results were tangible and quantifiable in terms of improving the health of their community. The message wasn't generic, it was specific.
A place like the Y offers a vast array of health and wellness options. Recently, we've worked to consolidate our main messaging in our ongoing efforts to improve the nation's health and well-being. When you visit the Y, you can receive a refrigerator-friendly takeaway that outlines 3 simple steps to a healthier lifestyle. Detailed points are highlighted under the steps of Get Fit, You Are What You Eat, and Stay Motivated. Follow these three specific steps and you're likely to see results.
Seeking the generic can be an efficient approach to shopping. It's not effective in promoting health and wellness. The focus and the details matter. "Be healthier" or "exercise more" often aren't tangible enough to move anyone to action. Reduce sugary beverages from your diet and walk at least 30-60 minutes daily (even if it's around your workplace) are more practical.
As we enter 2012, I encourage you to be frugal and go with the generic when it makes sense. However, when it comes to pursuing a healthier lifestyle or, perhaps, choosing breakfast foods, be specific and don't sacrifice quality or results.
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Blame it on Scooby
Scooby Doo, Dora, and Shrek make kids fat. At least that is what the evidence suggests according to a recent study at Yale (www.philly.com, How Scooby Doo Makes Kids Fat, 7/1/10). Kids pay attention to marketing. They want to eat the foods that the characters they love are endorsing. We know this. But, can we resist the luring temptress of Hollywood marketers influencing the choices we make for our children? The answer seems to be no.
Childhood diseases stemming from poor diet and lack of exercise are rising to epidemic proportions. In a recent Q&A, local doctor Chad Jumper (Creason, Naomie, The Sentinel, 7/4/10) reported seeing an alarming increase in childhood obesity. The YMCA's Healthy Family Home newsletter, along with many other health-focused organizations promote a simple message to combat this issue: eat healthier and be more active. Yet, we are losing the battle of the bulge as more unhealthy behaviors are now sprouting up in our children at an earlier age. Why? Blame it on Scooby. Or, so we'd like to.
The Yale study was published in the July issue of the Journal of Pediatrics and it showed that children reported that foods in packages endorsed by their favorite characters tasted better than the same foods in plain packaging. A similar study by the Sesame Street Workshop showed the same, wherein children were more likely to choose broccoli over a Hershey bar only when Elmo was placed on the vegetable. It was suggested in Super Size Me that Ronald McDonald has better brand recognition among children than Jesus. Really?
As parents, we are reeling against the power of the marketing punch of the food industry. We awkwardly try to convince our children that their home made lunch is just as cool as their best friends kid's meal, complete with a gender specific toy, and that it will benefit them in the long-term. While we stumble through the conversation, the food industry is gearing up to have a greater impact. The website www.extension.org reports that the Federal Trade Commission states that the food industry spent $1.6 billion on promoting their products to children under the age of 17 in 2006. Five percent of that spending was on advertising "healthy" eating through dairy products and fruit juice. Hooray. (None was spent on fruit and vegetable promotion). Much of that money is being spent on cross promotional efforts with movies, internet-based games, and other multi-media approaches to have a greater branding effect with our kids. Who knew Dora was this powerful?
Product recalls don't even slow this marketing freight train. Even after I learned that some of the Shrek products were pulled from Happy Meals, I caved to efficiency one busy afternoon and picked up a fast food lunch for my children. They beamed while wearing their new Shrek watches that were included. I'm not sure which was worse, the nutritional value of the lunch or the uncertainty over the manufacturing of the toy. Shrek wins.
These food industry folks are tough. But, in the words of Rocky Balboa, "it's not about how hard you can hit, it's about how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward." We don't have the resources to combat the $1.6 billion in marketing that is being thrown toward our children. So, we have to withstand the onslaught of high-sugar, highly processed promotions, find small victories, and keep moving forward.
I recently visited a big-box store with my 5-year-old son. As he stepped out of the car, he quickly spotted that the traditionally white parking lines had been repainted with a photo of a seductive smores treat. "Daddy, can we get one of those inside?" He said with a grin. Do we really have a chance in this battle?
I believe we do. And it's not blaming Scooby, Dora, or Shrek for our weight-induced national health crisis. And it's not in waiting for first lady Michelle Obama to resolve the issue (though she is to be commended for trying). It's in personal accountability for our own health choices. It's in creating a culture within our homes where food is viewed as energy-giving fuel for our bodies that allow us to work outdoors, play, and be active. It's in modeling healthy choices for our children. It's in de-cluttering our schedules to allow for less visits to a drive-thru and more opportunities to prepare meals together. It's in enjoying the sweets of life, but in moderation and on occasion. It's in being responsible for our own health and caring for the futures of our children.
But, be careful - Scooby is coming for you!
Childhood diseases stemming from poor diet and lack of exercise are rising to epidemic proportions. In a recent Q&A, local doctor Chad Jumper (Creason, Naomie, The Sentinel, 7/4/10) reported seeing an alarming increase in childhood obesity. The YMCA's Healthy Family Home newsletter, along with many other health-focused organizations promote a simple message to combat this issue: eat healthier and be more active. Yet, we are losing the battle of the bulge as more unhealthy behaviors are now sprouting up in our children at an earlier age. Why? Blame it on Scooby. Or, so we'd like to.
The Yale study was published in the July issue of the Journal of Pediatrics and it showed that children reported that foods in packages endorsed by their favorite characters tasted better than the same foods in plain packaging. A similar study by the Sesame Street Workshop showed the same, wherein children were more likely to choose broccoli over a Hershey bar only when Elmo was placed on the vegetable. It was suggested in Super Size Me that Ronald McDonald has better brand recognition among children than Jesus. Really?
As parents, we are reeling against the power of the marketing punch of the food industry. We awkwardly try to convince our children that their home made lunch is just as cool as their best friends kid's meal, complete with a gender specific toy, and that it will benefit them in the long-term. While we stumble through the conversation, the food industry is gearing up to have a greater impact. The website www.extension.org reports that the Federal Trade Commission states that the food industry spent $1.6 billion on promoting their products to children under the age of 17 in 2006. Five percent of that spending was on advertising "healthy" eating through dairy products and fruit juice. Hooray. (None was spent on fruit and vegetable promotion). Much of that money is being spent on cross promotional efforts with movies, internet-based games, and other multi-media approaches to have a greater branding effect with our kids. Who knew Dora was this powerful?
Product recalls don't even slow this marketing freight train. Even after I learned that some of the Shrek products were pulled from Happy Meals, I caved to efficiency one busy afternoon and picked up a fast food lunch for my children. They beamed while wearing their new Shrek watches that were included. I'm not sure which was worse, the nutritional value of the lunch or the uncertainty over the manufacturing of the toy. Shrek wins.
These food industry folks are tough. But, in the words of Rocky Balboa, "it's not about how hard you can hit, it's about how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward." We don't have the resources to combat the $1.6 billion in marketing that is being thrown toward our children. So, we have to withstand the onslaught of high-sugar, highly processed promotions, find small victories, and keep moving forward.
I recently visited a big-box store with my 5-year-old son. As he stepped out of the car, he quickly spotted that the traditionally white parking lines had been repainted with a photo of a seductive smores treat. "Daddy, can we get one of those inside?" He said with a grin. Do we really have a chance in this battle?
I believe we do. And it's not blaming Scooby, Dora, or Shrek for our weight-induced national health crisis. And it's not in waiting for first lady Michelle Obama to resolve the issue (though she is to be commended for trying). It's in personal accountability for our own health choices. It's in creating a culture within our homes where food is viewed as energy-giving fuel for our bodies that allow us to work outdoors, play, and be active. It's in modeling healthy choices for our children. It's in de-cluttering our schedules to allow for less visits to a drive-thru and more opportunities to prepare meals together. It's in enjoying the sweets of life, but in moderation and on occasion. It's in being responsible for our own health and caring for the futures of our children.
But, be careful - Scooby is coming for you!
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Transformational Wellness
Transformation is a big word. Daunting perhaps. It represents sweeping change, a complete turnaround, a reversal. When applied to health and wellness it can become dispiriting. Health transformation conjures images of The Biggest Loser, running a marathon (that's 26.2 miles to be exact), or giving up all of the foods that you enjoy (like smoked hot sausages and french fries from a summer festival or hand-dipped ice cream with hot fudge). But, transformation doesn't happen in broad strokes. It happens in small, seemingly insignificant ways.
According to Dictionary.com, transformation means, "a change in form or appearance." Simply, it's doing something differently. Not everything. Just something. It's a slight change in process or a minor variation from the routine. By definition, transformation bubbles up from small changes.
Many of us have made resolutions this year to be healthier. In turn, some have signed up for a gym membership, joined a weight management program, promised to quit smoking cold turkey, or vowed to forever stop eating after 7 p.m. All in hopes of reaching the peak of transformation. Unfortunately, the peak looks far away, transformation seems too distant, and we never begin the climb.
Instead, we need to refocus our vision from the peak to the next step. To bring about transformation, we need to focus on those small, seemingly insignificant changes. Forget about the resolution to be healthier. Instead, find 30 minutes to be active today. Have the hot sausage, but forgo the fries. Have the ice cream, but lose the hot fudge. Have your evening snack, but reduce the portion. Find two resources to help you stop smoking and consider which one might work for you. Park further away from the store. Get up from your desk and stretch. Take a walk instead of turning the channel.
In the book Switch, by Chip and Dan Heath, they talk about a small town that failed to respond to other initiatives focused on 'being healthier." Consequently, efforts were refocused to a single message - "change to 1% milk." That's it. That was the message. And with that one, small, seemingly insignificant change, the town responded and their health and wellness improved in a variety of ways based on specific metrics. They became a healthier community.
"Be healthier." That's a slogan. "Purchase a lower fat milk." That's transformation.
According to Dictionary.com, transformation means, "a change in form or appearance." Simply, it's doing something differently. Not everything. Just something. It's a slight change in process or a minor variation from the routine. By definition, transformation bubbles up from small changes.
Many of us have made resolutions this year to be healthier. In turn, some have signed up for a gym membership, joined a weight management program, promised to quit smoking cold turkey, or vowed to forever stop eating after 7 p.m. All in hopes of reaching the peak of transformation. Unfortunately, the peak looks far away, transformation seems too distant, and we never begin the climb.
Instead, we need to refocus our vision from the peak to the next step. To bring about transformation, we need to focus on those small, seemingly insignificant changes. Forget about the resolution to be healthier. Instead, find 30 minutes to be active today. Have the hot sausage, but forgo the fries. Have the ice cream, but lose the hot fudge. Have your evening snack, but reduce the portion. Find two resources to help you stop smoking and consider which one might work for you. Park further away from the store. Get up from your desk and stretch. Take a walk instead of turning the channel.
In the book Switch, by Chip and Dan Heath, they talk about a small town that failed to respond to other initiatives focused on 'being healthier." Consequently, efforts were refocused to a single message - "change to 1% milk." That's it. That was the message. And with that one, small, seemingly insignificant change, the town responded and their health and wellness improved in a variety of ways based on specific metrics. They became a healthier community.
"Be healthier." That's a slogan. "Purchase a lower fat milk." That's transformation.
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
Wellness Resolutions
At the Carlisle Family YMCA, we talk often about wellness. We promote it, we facilitate it, we embody it. But, what do we really mean? According to Dictionary.com, wellness is defined as, "the quality or state of being healthy in body and mind, esp. as the result of deliberate effort." I like this particular definition because it highlights the correlation between a healthy body and mind. Again, we feel that this synergy between a healthy mind, healthy body, and a healthy spirit is best cultivated in community.
In 2010, you'll see even more opportunities to participate in programming that weaves together a focus on developing the body while also developing the mind and spirit. For example, the Mom's Night Out program partners a sampling of group fitness classes with discussion time led by local professionals relating to issues that moms face (relationships, family, finances). Our Healthy Family Home Program allows for families to participate in group activities (Family Double Dare Challenge) while also providing tips and resources for families to make their homes healthier in practical ways. The Motherwell series offers physical fitness activities that include opportunities for new moms to connect and even BYOB (bring your own baby)!
This isn't a commercial for programs. Instead, it's a reflection of how important community becomes in many aspects of our lives. During this New Year, take advantage of the many opportunities at the Y to make new friends, serve others, build up someone else, and receive support and encouragement from your Y community.
In 2010, you'll see even more opportunities to participate in programming that weaves together a focus on developing the body while also developing the mind and spirit. For example, the Mom's Night Out program partners a sampling of group fitness classes with discussion time led by local professionals relating to issues that moms face (relationships, family, finances). Our Healthy Family Home Program allows for families to participate in group activities (Family Double Dare Challenge) while also providing tips and resources for families to make their homes healthier in practical ways. The Motherwell series offers physical fitness activities that include opportunities for new moms to connect and even BYOB (bring your own baby)!
This isn't a commercial for programs. Instead, it's a reflection of how important community becomes in many aspects of our lives. During this New Year, take advantage of the many opportunities at the Y to make new friends, serve others, build up someone else, and receive support and encouragement from your Y community.
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Believe.
In a recent blog entry, marketing guru Seth Godin wrote, "Money is more than a transfer of value. It's a statement of belief." As a leader at the Y, I continually challenge myself and my team with the question, "Why do people choose and why should they continue to choose the YMCA?" As I look into our Y community, I believe that Godin's perspective on financial transactions offers great insight into answering that question.
What I mean is this, people may purchase a treadmill to increase their activity. It's transactional. They invest their dollars into a piece of equipment that they may or may not use. People may purchase access to 100 treadmills to increase their activity. It's transactional, impersonal. They invest their dollars into 100 pieces of equipment that they may or may not use.
When I see people becoming members of the Y, it's more than transactional. It's more than a transfer of value. Rather, it's a statement of belief. It's a belief in personal growth. It's a belief in serving others. It's a belief in relationships. It's belief in family values. It's a belief in building up children who represent the next generation of leaders. It's a belief in a group of people who collectively make their communities stronger. It's a belief in a national movement of holistic wellness. It's a belief in an international association of mission-driven professionals and volunteers. It's a belief in the historic roots of a community focused organization. It's a belief in the future of a community focused organization. It's a belief in offering healthy programs and services to all people, regardless of their ability to pay. And it's a belief that the road to wellness extends beyond a treadmill and is best traveled in community, with others who support a shared mission of building strong kids, strong families, and strong communities.
What I mean is this, people may purchase a treadmill to increase their activity. It's transactional. They invest their dollars into a piece of equipment that they may or may not use. People may purchase access to 100 treadmills to increase their activity. It's transactional, impersonal. They invest their dollars into 100 pieces of equipment that they may or may not use.
When I see people becoming members of the Y, it's more than transactional. It's more than a transfer of value. Rather, it's a statement of belief. It's a belief in personal growth. It's a belief in serving others. It's a belief in relationships. It's belief in family values. It's a belief in building up children who represent the next generation of leaders. It's a belief in a group of people who collectively make their communities stronger. It's a belief in a national movement of holistic wellness. It's a belief in an international association of mission-driven professionals and volunteers. It's a belief in the historic roots of a community focused organization. It's a belief in the future of a community focused organization. It's a belief in offering healthy programs and services to all people, regardless of their ability to pay. And it's a belief that the road to wellness extends beyond a treadmill and is best traveled in community, with others who support a shared mission of building strong kids, strong families, and strong communities.
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