Blog | The Wellings

February 16, 2024February 24, 2024

Best Practices When it Comes to Monitoring Your Credit Card and Online Financial Transactions

In today’s digital age, the convenience of electronic transactions has become an integral part of our daily lives. However, along with this convenience comes the risk of encountering false charges that can unexpectedly drain our finances.

Recently, a resident of British Columbia found himself in an alarming predicament when he discovered he had been unknowingly footing the bill for someone else’s cell phone expenses for a staggering five years. This unfortunate incident underscores the importance of vigilant monitoring of our financial transactions to prevent such occurrences from slipping through the cracks.

How false charges occur

False charges can arise in numerous ways. For example, the bank or credit card company may make an error. You may sign up for a one-month trial subscription that automatically renews every month. A store may inadvertently charge you twice or fail to process a return. Or perhaps you’re a victim of fraud. Scamming methods include phishing emails and phone calls, accessing data over public Wi-Fi, acquiring names and card numbers through a company data breach, and scanning a card’s magnetic stripe with a skimming device.

Monitoring transactions

Unless you make it a habit, it’s easy to let up on checking your purchases. You should monitor your bank account transactions and credit card statements at least monthly.

That includes statements for a credit card you only keep for emergencies. Some people prefer to check weekly if it’s onerous going through 30 days of transactions.

Note that sometimes a merchant’s name shows up that you don’t recognize because it’s the name of the merchant’s parent company. You can verify the associated purchase if you keep receipts, record transactions or use an app that tracks purchases. If you don’t have your receipts, generally, a call to your issuing credit card company will assist in finding this out.

An additional way to monitor transactions is to sign up for alerts, which can help identify fraud. Some financial institutions offer an extra layer of protection through transaction alerts, enabling consumers to receive real-time notifications of any activity on their accounts. Whether through text messages, emails, or dedicated mobile applications, these alerts serve as a proactive measure against potential fraud when a credit card or debit card transaction is made on your account. They empower individuals to take swift action in the event of unauthorized transactions.

One more detail to think about: if you or your parent or loved one begins to double pay bills or make purchases you can’t recall making frequently, it may be time to register a family member’s email and phone for texts so you may have a second pair of eyes looking out for fraud schemes, and monitoring monthly transactions.

In essence, the proactive monitoring of financial transactions serves as a crucial safeguard against the perils of false charges and fraudulent activity. By remaining vigilant and implementing sound practices, individuals can mitigate the risk of financial loss and safeguard their hard-earned assets in an increasingly interconnected digital landscape.

in Financial Freedom Posted by Marci Perreault

February 11, 2024February 11, 2024

Move It! Fitness After 70 is More Achievable Than You Think

Embarking on a fitness journey after the age of 70 may seem daunting, yet it is both achievable and beneficial.

Drawing inspiration from James P. Owen’s transformative experience in his book “Just Move! A New Approach to Fitness After 50,” this blog post delves into how seniors can start their own fitness journey.

Jim Owen, a former Wall Street executive, was 70 when he realized the necessity of becoming fit.

Years of sedentary life had left him stiff, weak, and suffering from various aches and pains.

Seeking advice from experts, he uncovered the key strategies to achieve functional fitness.

Beginning with a consultation with healthcare professionals can ensure a safe start to your fitness journey.

Setting achievable goals and starting with low-impact activities such as walking, swimming, or gentle yoga can lay a solid foundation.

Incorporating strength training is essential to preserve muscle mass and support bone health.

The significance of regular exercise and tuning into your body’s signals cannot be overstated.

Additionally, joining a community or group can dramatically boost motivation.

The National Institute on Aging suggests a minimum of 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week, complemented by muscle-strengthening activities.

Gradually focusing on balance, flexibility, and strength, and establishing both immediate and long-term objectives, are crucial steps.

Take Carl’s story, for example, who maintains an active lifestyle and pursues his hobbies thanks to consistent exercise, highlighting that: it’s never too late to embark on a journey towards a healthier, more vibrant existence.

in Health and Fitness Posted by My Wellings

February 2, 2024February 2, 2024

Reinventing yourself is a Valuable Investment with a Great Return

We’re into the second month of 2024 and people are already breaking the New Year’s resolutions they made a month ago. In my humble opinion, New Year’s resolutions are a weak plan that serves to make us feel bad, when we don’t see quick results. How about we try a different angle? Instead of overwhelming ourselves with commitments that make us feel like we’re not enough, how about we focus on reinvention, which concentrates on shifting out parts of ourselves that are no longer serving us. Too many people stick with the limited notion that this is just how I am and who I am, take it or leave it, which is fine if it makes you feel good, but I think it reflects another limiting belief that we don’t have the capacity to reinvent ourselves.

Here’s some great news: you can choose where you want to remodel your lifestyle, your friends list, your thinking habits and begin laying the groundwork for the next great chapter in your life. We humans are far more powerful than we give ourselves credit for. Yes, changing something in our lives so that we improve ourselves and our circumstances may feel uncomfortable, but the reward is considerable.

Has anyone ever told you that you can do anything? If they did, do you believe it? Sometimes the idea that we can do anything we want frightens us because it’s such an abstract concept and so hard to feel that it could be real. Does it mean I can be an astronaut or live by the beach? Does it mean I can join a band or climb a mountain? Well, yes, yes, yes, and yes if you have the will, commitment, time, tenacity, and resources to devote yourself to making these projects your reality.

Likely your first reaction to becoming an astronaut is to scoff at such an idea but before you do, consider that becoming an astronaut may not be for you and just let it go. Every one of us is in a unique life situation which I like to describe as being in our own lane. There’s only your lane for you and in that lane with your gifts and your skills is where your best crack at reinvention lies.

“If we wait for the moment when everything, absolutely everything is ready, we shall never begin.” – Ivan Turgenev (novelist, poet, playwright).

Some of industry’s most successful leaders talk about the challenge of getting buy-in from their staff when it comes to reinvention or change. It’s a well-researched fact that we humans don’t like change but think for a second and realize that the way we got to where we are as human beings is because of change. These same leaders of industry also talk about how to get their teams on side, when it comes to change. First, they say, as leaders, they must see the value in it and then they must keep it simple for their teams. When a big idea is simplified, it makes it easier for our busy thinking mind to grasp a fresh perspective. Our thinking mind is so good at coming up with all the reasons why we shouldn’t change anything. As CEO of your life, it’s important that you’re convinced that there’s value in reinvention and it’s key that you don’t overwhelm yourself with big sweeping change. Instead focus on small shifts so that you can remain accountable to your goal instead of feeling overwhelmed and slipping back into habits that no longer serve you.

“The truth is that our finest moments are most likely to occur when we are feeling deeply uncomfortable, unhappy, or unfulfilled. For it is only in such moments, propelled by our discomfort, that we are likely to step out of our ruts and start searching for different ways or truer answers.” -M. Scott Peck (psychiatrist, author)

Having clarity about what we want in whatever chapter of life we’re in and having goals for our future is key to successful reinvention. Often clarity emerges from us examining our discomfort or recognizing what we don’t want in our lives. If you’re a chronic complainer or find yourself in the company of complainers, at some point there’s a recognition that the habit of complaining never brings joy; it only brings more situations to complain about. Recognizing that this habit needs to shift out if you’re ever going to feel satisfied and joyful is a big step. We should always feel pleased with ourselves when we recognize habits that are no longer serving us and are working against our joy. Then, by having compassion for ourselves, we can begin to replace complaints with questions or compliments. These can be directed at ourselves by speaking kindly to and about ourselves, and can be addressed to those around us, so that we gradually ease our way out of the habit of complaining and into a mindset and an approach that invites more joy.

We should always be curious about the world we’re living in, regardless of age. The National Institute of Aging studied curiosity along with other factors such as physical health risks in a group of 1200 men over 65, to see if curiosity made any impact on the quality of their lives or their longevity; a similar study was done following 1000 women. The results showed a correlation between physical and psychological health in curious people and concluded that curiosity impacted longevity. The study also showed that curious people were better prepared to respond to challenges encountered as they age such as change in living arrangements or mobility. Curious people displayed better coping skills with new experiences, were more adept at forging new friendships and were more resourceful when it came to problem solving.

“If you are not where you want to be, do not quit. Instead, reinvent yourself and change your habits.” –Eric Thomas (pastor, author, speaker)

Do you find yourself spending too much time alone? Isolation and loneliness can have a serious impact on our physical and mental health, so if this sounds like you it’s time to look at how you can reinvent your lifestyle. Let’s use the example of volunteering to up level your life and provide meaning for you and impact for others. Begin with researching services, clubs and organizations in your community and find groups engaged in something that really interests you. Perhaps contact someone within the group to find out more information and invite a friend to investigate with you a little further in person. It won’t take long before you’ll know whether it’s for you. If it is for you, you’ve opened the door to potentially making new friends and of course being of service is rewarding all around. You’ve just expanded your circle, created connections, and enhanced your community. You’ve just reinvented yourself.

in Carefreedom Living® Posted by Kathie Donovan

January 30, 2024January 31, 2024

Free Your Spirit and Fill Your Soul

By: Natalie Tommy, with Sandy Sharkey

Deciding on artwork for our Wellings Communities is never easy, but we knew it had to capture the wild spirits and echo the lives of the people who would live with us.

Sandy Sharkey, an Ottawa photographer, captures these sentiments in almost every way.

Sandy is a visionary equine photographer based in the heart of Ottawa.

With a passion for capturing the majestic beauty and intimate connection between nature, humans, and horses, Sandy has carved a niche for herself as a trailblazer in the world of equine photography, with a specialty in wild horses.

Her photos don’t just freeze moments; they tell stories of the profound bond shared between the world and horses.

Her artistry goes beyond the conventional, delving into the rich tapestry of emotions, strength, and grace inherent in the equine world.

With a phone call and the big goal of bringing sentiments of freedom, friendship, strength, beauty, youthful exuberance, and playfulness to the walls of Wellings, we went to work.

The wild horses we selected symbolize various positive qualities, such as strength, freedom, and companionship.

The imagery of horses can evoke positive emotions and associations, contributing to a sense of well-being and contentment.

The collection I selected varies from bold, feisty stallions to what appears to be a community celebrating being free.

Each one is unique and special.

You are welcome to view the collection in person at the Wellings of Stittsville; in the meantime, enjoy a few of our favorites here.

Wild Horses in a Snowstorm

Sandy Sharkey

There are spectacular wild horses living in the Rocky Mountain foothills of Alberta. Many people don’t know that the wild horses thrive and survive in this mountain setting just two hours north of Calgary. I was on my own one day, photographing a gorgeous herd when a snowstorm appeared. Of course I had to get one last shot before I retreated down the mountain. Such an honour to spend time with these wild horses existing in the raw beauty that is mother nature.

Power and Glory

Sandy Sharkey

The iconic white horses of the Camargue region of southern France are revered for their power and strength. Considered to be one of the oldest breeds of horses in the world, these horses have lived wild in the marshes and wetlands of the Rhone delta for centuries. To capture this shot, I knew I had to trust the horses galloping towards me. I was knee-deep in mud but didn’t budge as I felt their power just a few feet from me. Was I splattered with mud and salt water? Yep! Would I do it all over again? Absolutely.

Wild Mustangs in the Dust

Sandy Sharkey

Wild mustangs have lived in many parts of the American southwest for centuries. From the mountains of Montana to the forests of northern Arizona and the Nevada desert, wild mustangs are true survivors and the ultimate symbol of freedom. But they are no match for the heavy hand of mankind. Thousands of mustangs are removed from public lands each year and placed in holding facilities with an uncertain future. But this photo represents what can happen when people show compassion. This is a once-captured wild herd that has been reunited with it’s family band, and is again running as free as the wind. Photographed at Return to Freedom Wild Horse Sanctuary in Lompoc California.

Dream Boy

Sandy Sharkey

Darkness was descending in the marshes of the Camargue region of southern France. I had spent the day photographing the iconic white horses that have lived in this area for centuries. I was beginning to pack up my camera gear when I turned around and saw this breathtaking stallion watching me with curiosity. There is always something special about making a connection with an animal, even for just a fleeting moment.

The Wild Ones

Sandy Sharkey

Just like humans, wild horses form close knit bonds. They can often be seen snuggled up together, nudging and grooming each other. The wild horses of Apache-Sitgreaves National US Forest in northern Arizona live amongst the tall pines and to encounter them in their forest home is nothing less than magical. Standing quite a distance away, I remained still and savoured this sweet moment between three wild ones.

On the Dunes

Sandy Sharkey

Located 300 kilometres east of Halifax in the Atlantic Ocean, Sable Island National Park Preserve is home to approximately 500 wild horses. Artists, authors, filmmakers and adventurers alike have been drawn to these legendary horses since the 18th Century. The wild horses of Sable Island are adored, respected, and enjoy full protection from the Canadian government. They are true survivors, adept at handling challenging conditions. I photographed these two stallions climbing a grassy sand dune to quench their thirst at a nearby freshwater pond.

The Stand Off

Sandy Sharkey

I have traveled around the world to photograph wild horses and have observed distinct differences in the horse herds from one geographical region to the next. But one thing remains a constant: boys will be boys. In the hierarchy of wild horse family bands, stallions for the most part co-exist with each other….until one stallion decides that HE deserves to be the band leader. A wild stallion skirmish doesn’t usually last long, but it always ends with a clear winner. Photographed in the Onaqui Mountain range of Utah’s Great Basin Desert.

Love Bite

Sandy Sharkey

If you spend a lot of time around horses, you get a window into their world. It is your reward for patience. Once you have the horse’s trust, special moments unfold. I was photographing the iconic white horses of the Camargue region in southern France when this stallion approached a mare and gave her a ‘love bite’. She obviously liked it, because they became inseparable….and I was fortunate to capture a sweet moment between a newly bonded couple.

Reflections of Sable Island

Sandy Sharkey

There is nothing quite like Canada’s remote Sable Island. Located 300 kilometres from Halifax in the Atlantic Ocean, Sable Island is home to the largest breeding population of grey seals and several species of seabirds. But the real stars of Sable Island are the free-spirited wild horses that have survived here since the 1700’s. With the swells of the Atlantic Ocean crashing to the shore behind them, this beautiful trio approached a peaceful inlet and created a beautiful reflection. I was fortunate to capture this magical moment.

Close

Sandy Sharkey

Is it any wonder that the wild horses of Sable Island are so adored- not only by Canadians from coast to coast, but by horse lovers around the world. With a very limited number of visitors each year, Sable Island remains a pristine natural environment that offers everything the horses need to survive: vegetation, freshwater ponds, and tall dunes for shelter. The wild horses are fully protected. As always, it is important to keep our distance from the wild horses and to respect the fact that they have virtually no interaction with humans. I photographed this intimate moment from a distance of 30 metres. A gorgeous pair of horses living wild and free on Canada’s remote Sable Island.

Together

Sandy Sharkey

As a wild horse photographer, my goal is to capture a moment in time. Whether it’s the high drama between two wild stallions, the first steps taken by a newborn wobbly foal, or the intimate connections that exist in wild horse family bands…I strongly feel that photography has the power to educate, inform, and enlighten. When we learn about the sentient lives of animals and see that their world is no different from ours, we are encouraged to add our voices for their protection. In 2010, more than 1700 wild horses were rounded up, separated and removed from the only home they ever knew: the wilderness in Nevada’s Calico Mountains. But humanity shone a light and the surviving wild horses were rescued by ‘Return to Freedom’ Wild Horse Sanctuary in Lompoc California. Safe from harm, these two wild horses were among those re-united. It was an honour to capture this moment.

in Carefreedom Living® Posted by Natalie Tommy, VP Marketing, Nautical Lands Group of Companies & Wellings

January 28, 2024January 28, 2024

Sipping Success: Robert Mills’ Favorite Mocktails for Dry February at The Wellings

Hello, Wellies, and welcome to Winter! Every year, we get asked for a few non-alcoholic drink ideas as some of our members partake in dry February. After all the indulgences of the festive season, it’s a way to reset our bodies and get back to our routines. It’s Robert Mills, your resident chef and flavour maestro, here to let you in on some good news and share in the excitement of dry February with a twist – or should I say, a shake and a stir? As we embark on this alcohol-free adventure, I’m thrilled to introduce you to my favourite mocktails that will tantalize your taste buds and make your dry February a month to remember. They are tasty and I’ll bet you won’t miss the alcohol one bit.

The Zesty Citrus Fizz

Let’s kick things off with a burst of citrusy goodness. My Zesty Citrus Fizz combines freshly squeezed orange juice, a splash of grapefruit, and a hint of lime for that perfect tang. Top it off with a splash of soda water and garnish with a twist of orange peel. It’s a refreshing blend that will transport you to a sunny citrus grove with every sip.

Berry Bliss Cooler

For a burst of berrylicious delight, try my Berry Bliss Cooler. Muddle a handful of mixed berries – strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries – in a shaker. Add a dash of honey syrup, a squeeze of lemon juice, and ice. Shake it up and strain it into a glass filled with crushed ice. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint, and voila – a vibrant, refreshing mocktail that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious.

Tropical Sunrise Punch

Transport yourself to a tropical paradise with my Tropical Sunrise Punch. In a shaker, mix pineapple juice, coconut water, and a splash of orange juice. Shake well and strain into a glass filled with ice. To create that mesmerizing sunrise effect, gently pour a bit of grenadine down the side of the glass. Watch as it sinks and then slowly rises, creating a beautiful layered look. Garnish with a pineapple wedge and a cherry – you’ll be sipping on sunshine in no time.

Ginger Spice Elevation

For those who crave a bit of warmth and spice, my Ginger Spice Elevation is the perfect choice. In a mixing glass, muddle fresh ginger slices with a dash of cinnamon syrup. Add apple juice and ice, then stir well. Strain into a glass and garnish with a cinnamon stick and apple slices. The combination of ginger and spice will elevate your taste buds to new heights, making this mocktail a comforting and flavorful option for dry February.

Favourite warm Spiced Mulled Apple Cider

Ingredients:

4 cups apple cider

2 cinnamon sticks

4 whole cloves

4 whole allspice berries

1 orange, thinly sliced

1 lemon, thinly sliced

1-2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)

Optional: Star anise for extra flavor

Instructions:

In a large pot, combine the apple cider, cinnamon sticks, cloves, allspice berries, orange slices, and lemon slices.

Add honey or maple syrup to the pot and stir well.

Place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Be careful not to boil.

Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes to allow the spices to infuse into the cider.

Remove the pot from heat and strain the mulled cider to remove the spices and fruit slices.

Serve the spiced mulled apple cider in mugs, and if desired, garnish with a cinnamon stick or a slice of orange.

Curl up with your warm mug and savor the comforting and aromatic Spiced Mulled Apple Cider on a chilly winter day and let the delightful flavour soothe your soul.

Non-Alcoholic Classic Hot Buttered Rum

Ingredients:

2 cups hot water

3 tablespoons unsalted butter

1/4 cup brown sugar

1/4 cup honey

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

A pinch of salt

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Whipped cream (optional, for garnish)

Cinnamon stick (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

In a saucepan, heat the water until it’s almost boiling.

In a mixing bowl, combine the butter, brown sugar, honey, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground cloves, and a pinch of salt. Mix until well combined.

Slowly add the hot water to the butter and spice mixture, stirring continuously until the butter is melted and the ingredients are well combined.

Stir in the vanilla extract.

Pour the hot buttered rum mixture into mugs.

If desired, top each mug with a dollop of whipped cream and garnish with a cinnamon stick.

Serve immediately and enjoy the comforting warmth of this non-alcoholic hot buttered rum!

This delicious drink captures the rich and spiced flavors of traditional hot buttered rum, making it a perfect choice for a cozy evening by the fire or a chilly winter night.

There you have it – my top picks for mocktails that will make dry February an unforgettable experience. So, gather your friends, come on down to our cozy haven, and let’s savor the joy of vibrant flavors without the spirits. Cheers to a month filled with delicious memories and a healthier, happier you!

Chef Robert Mills.

in Food and Recipes Posted by Chef Robert Mills

January 25, 2024January 25, 2024

Choosing Gratitude Over Jealousy: A Path to True Joy

In pursuing happiness, we often find ourselves at a crossroads: jealousy or gratitude.

While the former can seem deceptively alluring, promising motivation and a sense of comparative achievement, the latter leads to lasting joy and fulfillment.

I will dive into why choosing gratitude over jealousy can improve our lives.

The Trap of Jealousy

At its core, jealousy reflects our insecurities and unfulfilled desires. It’s easy to look at someone else’s life – their successes, possessions, or lifestyle – and feel envy. However, this emotion is more destructive than it is constructive. It roots us in a mindset of scarcity and competition, where our self-worth is measured against others.

The Power of Gratitude

Gratitude, on the other hand, shifts our focus from what we lack to what we possess. It’s about recognizing and appreciating the value of our own life experiences, relationships, and achievements. When we practice gratitude, we open ourselves to experiencing joy in the present moment, appreciating life’s small victories and simple pleasures.

Practical Steps Towards Gratitude

Personal Inventory: Start by taking stock of your life. What are the things you’re thankful for? This could range from your health, family, and friends to your career achievements. Acknowledging these can shift your perspective from what you don’t have to what you do.

Celebrate Others’ Success: Instead of feeling envious, try to feel happy for others’ achievements. This positive outlook can bring a sense of community and shared joy rather than isolation and bitterness.

Set Realistic Goals: Sometimes, we set lofty goals that are more about outshining others than fulfilling our needs. Setting achievable personal goals keeps our focus inward and helps us derive satisfaction from our progress.

The Joy of Letting Go

Letting go of jealousy is akin to unburdening oneself. It’s about releasing the heavy load of comparison and competition we often carry unconsciously. When we choose gratitude, we celebrate our unique journey, embrace our victories, and learn from our setbacks.

As we navigate life, let’s remind ourselves of our choices.

We can either get bogged down by jealousy or rise through gratitude.

Choosing the latter enhances our well-being and contributes to a more positive and supportive environment.

I am grateful for each one of you reading this.

I sincerely appreciate your time and engagement with these thoughts.

May we all strive to replace jealousy with gratitude and journey towards true joy.

in Carefreedom Living® Posted by Kevin pidgeon

January 21, 2024January 21, 2024

Five Transformative Tips for Men and Women Over 55

If you’re over 55, you’re navigating a time of life that’s as challenging as rewarding.

It’s a period for breaking free from past roles and embracing a world of freedom and opportunity.

But it’s also a time for shedding old habits and stereotypes.

Let’s discuss five key things men and women should stop doing to make the most of these enriching years.

1. Stop Being a People Pleaser

Many of us have focused on pleasing others, whether in our careers or personal lives. Now, it’s essential to prioritize your joy and aspirations. It’s about finding a balance between caring for others and honoring your own needs and desires. This is your moment to live life according to your standards.

2. Let Go of Living in the Past

Our past experiences shape us, but dwelling on them can hinder our enjoyment of the present and our anticipation of the future. Embrace the present and remain curious about new opportunities and experiences. Remember, your Past has shaped you, but it doesn’t confine your future.

3. Stop Putting Yourself Down

Now is the time to discard self-doubt and negative self-perceptions. Societal metrics of success or beauty do not define you. Embrace your journey, complete with its imperfections. Every step has contributed to who you are. Celebrate your life and all your achievements.

4. Embrace Change, Don’t Fear It

Change is inevitable, especially as we get older. Embracing changes in our bodies, lifestyles, and the world can be empowering. Change leads to growth, new experiences, and opportunities. Accept and flourish in this dynamic journey of life.

5. Get Control of Your Brain: Stop Overthinking

Excessive worry and overthinking can bring undue stress. Aim to live in the moment and enjoy life’s simple pleasures. Understand that some things are outside your control, and that’s perfectly fine. Learning to flow with life’s changes can lead to a more relaxed and enjoyable existence.

So, friends at The Wellings, what are your thoughts?

Are there other habits or attitudes you think we should shed as we journey through our 60s and beyond?

Your insights and experiences are invaluable, so please share them with us.

Let’s continue this conversation and explore how we can age stronger and more vibrantly together.

As we share our stories and wisdom, we realize that aging isn’t something we do alone – it’s a journey we embark on together.

By exchanging ideas and supporting one another, we create a stronger and more resilient community.

Your contributions, whether life lessons, tips for staying active, or ways to keep our minds sharp, enrich our collective experience.

Thank you for considering these ideas.

Have a beautiful day.

in Carefreedom Living® Posted by My Wellings

January 14, 2024January 14, 2024

Discover Your New Favourite Hobby: A Personal Guide to Fun and Learning

Good morning!

And welcome to your guide to discovering or rediscovering hobbies and fun learning activities.

Embarking on the journey to find a new hobby is an adventure filled with possibilities, especially in the golden years post-retirement.

This is when life gives you a blank canvas to paint with vibrant experiences and activities.

Like the Wellings, your community can be a treasure trove of opportunities and like-minded individuals, making this journey even more enriching and enjoyable.

It often begins with a reflective trip down memory lane.

Please think about what activities you enjoyed in the past.

Is there something you always wanted to try but have yet to get a chance?

Perhaps it was a musical instrument, a sport that energized you, or an artistic pursuit that sparked your creativity. These past interests can reignite a forgotten passion or inspire a new direction.

As you explore this world of hobbies, consider the diverse range of activities that blend creativity, physical activity, and mental stimulation.

Picture yourself with a paintbrush in hand, capturing the beauty of a landscape, or engaged in the tactile pleasure of crafting, like knitting or pottery.

These activities offer therapeutic benefits and the joy of creating something tangible.

Physical well-being is crucial, and hobbies like gardening and dance or exercise classes, such as yoga or swing dancing, combine physical health benefits with social interaction.

Gardening connects you with the rhythms of nature, while dancing brings the joy of movement and community engagement.

Mental and emotional aspects are just as vital.

Engaging in reading and writing can be a conduit for self-expression and legacy building. Through playing an instrument, music challenges the mind and brings the joy of a universal language.

Joining clubs or groups in your community, like at the Wellings, enriches the experience.

Whether it’s a book club, a photography group, or a music ensemble, these communities foster social connections and a sense of belonging. Community events, workshops, and classes offer opportunities to explore new hobbies or delve deeper into existing ones.

When choosing a hobby, consider your physical comfort.

Opt for activities that suit your lifestyle and physical condition.

For those with limited mobility, activities like seated exercises or hobbies that can be comfortably seated are excellent choices.

Setting achievable goals within your hobby can provide a sense of direction and accomplishment. Whether mastering a new piece of music, completing a craft project, or growing a garden, these goals offer motivation and satisfaction.

You can also consider hobbies that involve community service, like volunteering. They enrich your own life and make a positive impact on the lives of others, fulfilling a more profound need for connection and purpose.

Discovering a new hobby is as enriching as the hobby itself.

It’s a path filled with exploration, learning, and joy.

in Carefreedom Living® Posted by My Wellings

January 5, 2024January 5, 2024

Take the Machu Picchu Walking Challenge

Walking just 20 minutes a day is a simple and low-impact form of exercise that can provide a range of health benefits. Regular walking can improve cardiovascular health, boost mood, reduce stress, and strengthen muscles and bones. It’s an easy way to incorporate physical activity into your daily routine, and it doesn’t require any gym membership or special equipment beyond a good pair of shoes. Plus, walking outdoors can be a great way to enjoy fresh air and connect with nature.

To begin our “2024 Walk 10000 Steps a Day” program at Fitness Powers, we invite you to participate in an exciting and unique adventure this New Year, The Machu Picchu Challenge. This epic adventure offers a challenging, rewarding, and unforgettable experience. Whether you’re an experienced walker or someone just starting, this adventure is designed to be accessible and enjoyable for all. Also, you can complete your walks in one go or split them into smaller increments based on your ability and schedule.

So why not take the plunge and sign up for this epic New Year’s adventure? You won’t regret it!

Click the following link for more information or register for The Machu Picchu Challenge.

in Health and Fitness Posted by Fitness Powers

December 29, 2023January 4, 2024

Reset, Refresh, Reframe for 2024

I joke around with our neighbours’ kids that adulting is hard. I’m kidding and yet it’s true. Being an adult is a complex experience in part because we are emotional beings. As humans, we’re wired for safety and survival, we tend to view our circumstances as either negative or positive. Even on the sunniest of days, when we get the perfect parking spot and cruise quickly through checkout at the store, once someone cuts us off in traffic or we get some bad news about one of our kids the day becomes about the negative experience and that’s what we play over an over in our thoughts.

Our thinking mind loves to categorize and judge because of our need to feel safe and in charge. When something interferes with our plans or some unexpected situation arises, our thinking mind will examine all the ways in which this perceived obstacle might be threatening. It looks for the worst that could happen and we’re left to figure out the next steps for our safety.

Our thought process can be exhausting.

When we allow our thinking mind to lead in this way, we pile on stress, which can cause analysis paralysis because we’re over thinking. We invest our time in examining situations from every angle in the hope that at some point, a solution will magically appear. When an answer does bubble up, we second guess it, never feeling fully confident that it’s the right one, so we procrastinate a little longer, hoping that at some other time we’ll feel better about addressing our circumstances.

Yup. This is what it is to be human, when we allow our thinking mind to lead us by making decisions either mindlessly or based on other people’s expectations and values.

“Most of our stress and suffering come not from events, but from our thoughts. Reframe from negative thoughts, and stress subsides.”
–Martha Beck

Because our thoughts are so powerful, and researchers estimate we have between 60,000 and 80,000 of them a day (most of them negative for the reasons I describe above) they’re worth investigating. In the 1960’s American psychiatrist, Aaron Tempkin Beck helped patients who were struggling with depression to shift from a negative mindset to a positive mindset. The process was termed cognitive restructuring and over time became known as simply reframing, to portray the process of shifting the focus of our thoughts, to ultimately nourish a more positive mindset. Reframing can really help us experience everyday life differently and will influence how we feel about ourselves without changing any of the facts of whatever situation we’re dealing with.

“Our key to transforming anything lies in our ability to reframe it.”
-Marianne Williamson

Many people who consider giving up their family home experience anxiety over the unknown and feel their self-worth and sense of accomplishment is tied directly to owning their home. Who they will be without the identity of being an independent homeowner. The concern is real, but we can ask a better question than who will I be without being a homeowner? We can reframe the situation by asking who do I get to be without all the responsibilities that come with owning a home? The first question is big and ambiguous while the second question has immediate answers such as: I’ll have more time to connect with friends and family; I’ll have more resources to do the things I really want to do. In short, I’ll be free and it’s from that mindset that we can make sound decisions about the next right steps for ourselves. That’s the power of reframing.

“I am not failing — I am growing! Do you have the ability to reframe failure as growth in order to achieve your goals?”
-James C. Collins

I think we can all agree that as human beings we’re tough on ourselves when it comes to making mistakes. We learn early in life that the goal is to make our lives run smoothly instead of recognizing that life is a bumpy ride, and it goes more smoothly when we embrace the notion that mistakes are simply opportunities to learn. Let’s reframe the idea that life is happening to us (victim mentality) to life is happening for us (student of life mentality).

Motivational maven Mel Robbins teaches the five second rule: from the second we have an idea to do something, change something or take action on something, we have five seconds before our thinking mind steps in with all the reasons why not. Five seconds to get out of the chair and move our body, five seconds to book the tickets, make the reservation, call that friend before our thinking mind steps in to say you can do that later or not at all. Understanding how we’re wired helps us stay a little ahead of our powerful and negative thought bias, so that we can reframe the situation and decide to take action.

“Attitude is the ability to reframe the experience to empower you to future victories.”
-Orrin Woodward

As I’m getting older, I hear people say that if you have your health, you have everything and that’s one last point I’d like to reframe. While we do our best to maintain our health, things happen, and we can easily be taken down. Our attitude and our perspective on life as it is, is where we can really mine for gold. When life serves up lemons, we can tap into our attitude, to help us focus on what’s going well instead of what’s wrong; we can lean on our friends, family and community which are essential ingredients when it comes to making life-lesson lemonade. Interdependence is a key pillar of living a fulfilling life, especially as we age. Instead of imagining the worst-case scenario, we can reframe and ask what’s the best that could happen? When we choose to think this way with wisdom, clarity, self-compassion and acceptance, we empower ourselves to see the beauty and experience the bounty in our lives. We affirm that we are better together and that’s a great way to begin a new year.

This Wellings blog by Kathie Donovan was exclusively written for Wellings Communities and appeared first on MyWellings.com.

in Carefreedom Living® Posted by Kathie Donovan