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Einstein has to speak at an important science conference.

Einstein has to speak at an important science conference.

On the way there, Einstein tells his driver, who looks a bit like him

“I’m sick of all these conferences. It is always said the same things over and over! e=MC blah blah blah, I need a break.”

The driver agrees: 

“You’re right. As your driver, I attended all of your lectures. In theory, I can give your speech in your place.

“That’s a great idea!” says Einstein. 

“Let’s switch places then!”

So they switched clothes, and as soon as they arrived, the driver dressed as Einstein went on stage and started giving the usual speech, while the real Einstein, dressed as the car driver, relaxed in the back of the auditorium.

But in the crowd, one scientist wants to impress everyone and thinks of a tricky question to stump Einstein. 

So the scientist stands up and interrupts the conference.

“Excuse me! Professor Einstein – Given the success of quantum mechanics in describing subatomic particles, how would you reconcile the apparent incompatibility between general relativity, which describes gravity on a large scale, and quantum field theory?”

The whole room goes silent, holding their breath, waiting for the response

The driver looks at him, dead in the eye, and says: “Sir, your question is so easy to answer that I will let my driver reply.”

in Carefreedom Living® Posted by My Wellings

Popular Canadian Tax Credits and Deductions (2024)

While tax season isn’t until the end of the year, there are some benefits to planning ahead so you have a clearer idea if you will receive a bill or a refund. One of the best ways to plan ahead is to be aware of the tax deductions and credits you may qualify for.

We’ve rounded up some popular options for 2024 to help investors try to maximize their tax savings.

Tax deductions vs. tax credits

So what’s the difference between a tax deduction and a tax credit, anyway? Both can help lower the amount of tax you might have to pay, but they go about it differently.

Deductions work to lower your taxable income, so less of your earnings are subject to tax in the first place, potentially dropping you into a lower tax bracket.

Tax credits, by comparison, reduce the amount of tax you pay, potentially lowering your tax bill. There are two types of tax credits: refundable and non-refundable. Refundable credits are paid out even if you don’t owe any income tax. Non refundable tax credits, however, can only be used to offset income tax you owe. While non-refundable tax credits can reduce your tax bill to zero, they won’t qualify you for a tax refund.

Popular tax deductions in Canada

Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) contributions

RRSP contributions are arguably the best-known tax deduction. They are so popular that a whole event has been built around the filing deadline. But it’s important to remember there’s a limit on how much you can contribute each year. For 2024, the contribution limit is $31,560, or 18% of your income earned the previous year, whichever is less. That said, unused contribution room carries over, so you may be able to contribute more if you haven’t maxed out your available contribution room from the previous year. Although you can make contributions at any time, the deadline to be able to apply those tax credits to your previous year’s earnings is typically 60 days after the end of the calendar year.

First Home Savings Account (FHSA)

Launched in 2023, the FHSA is a registered account that allows first-time homebuyers to save money that can be put toward building or buying a house. The contribution room grows by $8,000 per year, with a lifetime contribution limit of $40,000. Remember, you don’t start earning contribution room until a FHSA account is opened. These contributions work a little like RRSPs, by lowering your taxable income, and unused contribution room also carries over to the next year. Still, there is one notable difference: unlike the RRSP contribution deadline, the filing deadline for FHSA contributions is the end of the calendar
year.

Investment expenses

Did you borrow money to buy investments inside a taxable account (meaning outside an RRSP or TFSA)? If so, the interest you paid on those loans can be deducted from your taxable income – as long as it’s used to try to earn investment income such as dividends or interest. There’s a caveat: if the only earnings your investment can produce are capital gains, you cannot claim the interest you paid. Also keep in mind that there are special rules in Quebec.

Home office expenses

If you work from home, there are certain expenses you can deduct, such as your home internet and a portion of your utilities. In 2023, Ottawa eliminated the simplified method of calculating expenses in favour of the detailed method, which requires you to list specific expenses and amounts. Your employer will have to fill out a form, too.

Notable tax credits

There are dozens of potential tax credits that can help you reduce your taxes, like those related to moving expenses or child care. Here are just a few of the more common ones to highlight their potential.

First-Time Home Buyers’ Tax Credit (HBTC)

If you bought your first home in 2024, you could receive up to $1,500 through this non-refundable credit.

Multigenerational Home Renovation Tax Credit (MHRTC)

If you renovated your home to build a secondary unit to house someone over the age of 65 or an individual between 18 and 64 with a disability who is eligible for the disability tax credit, you could receive this refundable tax credit. Those who qualify can claim up to 15% on certain costs of up to $50,000.

Digital News Subscription Tax Credit

If you’re a big consumer of news, this one’s for you. Anyone who pays for a subscription to a qualifying news organization after 2019 and before 2025 can claim this non-refundable tax credit of up to $500.

Canada Training Credit

If you’re between 26 and 65 and spent money on training fees this year, you may qualify for this refundable tax credit. To claim this credit, your working income must be more than $10,100, and your individual net income can’t exceed $150,473. The credit accumulates at a rate of $250 per year, up to a lifetime limit of $5,000.

Federal Political Contribution Tax Credit

Did you or your spouse contribute to a registered federal political party or association this year? You could claim up to $650 through this non-refundable credit (except in Ontario).

Medical Expense Tax Credit (METC)

If you paid for any medical expenses this year, you may want to hold onto your receipts. You can claim some of them (there are more than 100 that qualify) on your tax return with this non-refundable tax credit. Examples include ambulance service, prescription drugs, cancer treatment and hearing aids.

in Financial Freedom Posted by Marci Perreault

The Comfort Zone Feels Good but is it Good for Us?

Do you love your comfort zone as much as I do? Especially when I felt pressured in some way, my old habit was to retreat to comfort. It’s human nature. I can remember as a kid not having very much peace or ease in my life, which I’m sure in part explains why I’m a sugar addict. Sugar provided sweetness and an instant fix of comfort for me, when I was a kid but that habit hung around a little too long. I’ve been aware for some time that sugar is a poison in the body, so in the last several decades, I’ve been investigating other ways to comfort myself instead of turning to sugar. I love yoga, meditation and walking in nature; these practices all help to calm my system. I acknowledge that it takes courage to resist the allure of sugar because it’s so easy to access but I’ll continue to push on the edges of my comfort zone to embrace other ways to find sweetness in life because I know I’ll benefit in the long run.

“One can choose to go back toward safety or forward toward growth. Growth must be chosen again and again; fear must be overcome again and again.”
-Psychologist, Abraham Maslow

Mirriam-Webster dictionary defines comfort as “contented well-being, consolation in a time of trouble, a feeling of relief or encouragement.” Comfort implies a state of ease and satisfaction; it’s something we all want to experience. But staying in our comfort zone can over time create such a predictable life that we can feel bored or left out and long term that’s not a recipe for a happy life. It’s important to understand the difference between challenging the edges of our comfort zone and doing something that makes us feel uncomfortable. Moving out of our comfort zone implies that we accept a challenge and make the choice to grow even when it’s somewhat difficult. Engaging in an activity that makes us feel uncomfortable without a clear intention can have negative consequences and push us farther back into our comfort zone instead of helping to expand it.

“Move out of your comfort zone. You can only grow if you are willing to feel awkward and uncomfortable when you try something new.”
-Author Brian Tracy

Have I ever shared with you the experience I had when I started to study colour pencil drawing? My teacher was a physicist turned artist, who copied the masters, and became a master of the art herself. She had many tricks to help her students not feel overwhelmed when starting a drawing but the week after we were assigned to draw a group of apples from a photograph, I had barely one centimeter of the assignment done. I was so afraid to not get it right, I felt paralyzed until I was in my teacher’s company where I felt courageous enough to move the drawing along and eventually finish it. I remember the experience so well because I was pushed so far out of my comfort zone. I was asking myself who I thought I was, I was afraid of being judged by the teacher and what I learned was that as a student we don’t have to know all the answers, we don’t have to get it right the first time; we don’t have to judge ourselves harshly. We just need to be good students and having a lot of compassion for ourselves is an important part of being a good student. That lesson runs through everything I live today in my personal and my professional life. Having a student mindset allows me to be more compassionate toward myself when I don’t get it right; it supports me when I want to try new things, meet new people and have new experiences.                                     

“Inaction breeds doubt and fear. Action breeds confidence and courage. If you want to conquer fear, do not sit at home and think about it. Go out and get busy.”
-Dale Carnegie

Especially as we get older, the comfort zone becomes more appealing. We’re concerned about stepping out, we’re afraid to look like we don’t know what we’re doing, and we think we should be able to handle everything in our lives, the way we’ve always done. So, staying in familiar surroundings feels safer than doing something we’ve never done before or trying something we’ve never tried before. It’s key to mention here that as we get older and our life circumstances shift: we retire from full-time work, we may move out of our family home, we may not have family close by or feel connected to our family, whatever the circumstances we need to accept whatever is going on. That may be the most courageous act of all: acceptance of life as it is. The curious thing is that once we fully accept life as it is, we create space for ease to take over from the anxiety of wishing life could be any other way.

“May your choices reflect your hopes, not your fears.”
–Nelson Mandela

Successful people understand that there’s no such thing as failure. When we don’t get the result, we expect when we try something new, it doesn’t mean we’ve lost. On the contrary, when we’re open to learning, we can see that we’ve gained wisdom, a fresh perspective and perhaps a new skill. We don’t always have to understand why something didn’t work for us, nor do we need to blame ourselves for not getting the result we wanted. We need to congratulate ourselves for taking a risk and embrace compassion for ourselves in the process. Life is anything but predictable and perhaps we shouldn’t be either. Learning to expand our comfort zone equips us to process change and uncertainty with more acceptance and grace; it also helps us to be more resilient in the face of future challenges.

Here are some tips to help you expand your comfort zone:

  • Spend time in the company of courageous people and listen carefully to them so you can learn how to be more courageous.
  • Be honest with yourself. Write in a private journal or talk with a trusted friend. Say exactly what you’re feeling.
  • Challenge what you think you know. Be open to other viewpoints and opinions.
  • Learn a new language or take up a hobby to push on the edges of your comfort zone. This helps with memory and problem-solving skills.
  • Make being creative part of your every day: write, draw, paint, do a puzzle, sing, dance, play music or build a business. These activities help to alleviate the need for perfection and encourage a student mindset.
in Healthy Aging Posted by Kathie Donovan

Talking Dog for Sale

A man sees a sign in front of a house: 

“Talking Dog for Sale – $10.” 

Curious, he knocks on the door, and the owner answers.

“Is it true? You have a talking dog for sale?” the man asks.

“Yep,” the owner replies. 

“He’s out back, go see for yourself.”

So, the man walks into the backyard and sees a dog sitting there. 

“Can you talk?” he asks.

“Sure can,” the dog replies.

The man is stunned. 

“Wow! So, what’s your story?”

“Well,” the dog begins, “I discovered I could talk when I was a pup. I wanted to do something good with my talents, so I joined CSIS, the Canadian Security Intelligence Service. They used me for all sorts of top-secret missions. I’d sit in meetings with spies and gather intel—no one ever suspected a dog was eavesdropping. I was their best agent. But after a few years, I got tired of the travel and retired. I moved back here, settled down, and now I volunteer at the local hospital, cheering up sick kids. And that’s pretty much it.”

The man is amazed. 

He walks back to the house and asks the owner, “Why on earth would you sell such an incredible dog for just $10?”

The owner shrugs, “Eh, he is lying. He didn’t do any of that stuff.”

in Carefreedom Living® Posted by My Wellings

Extraordinary Memory Skills Discovered in a Small-Brained Butterfly

When we think of smart animals, butterflies don’t usually make the list. But deep in the tropics, there’s one butterfly that’s proving us all wrong—the Heliconius. With its beautiful colours and delicate wings, this little insect has a surprisingly sharp memory that’s been fascinating scientists.

While most butterflies are happy sipping nectar, the Heliconius takes it up a notch by also munching on pollen. This unique diet means it needs to remember exactly where its favourite flowers are and plan routes to visit them—a skill that’s rare in the insect world. Recently, researchers published a study in Current Biology exploring what makes this butterfly so special, and the findings are impressive.

A Tiny Brain with Big Capabilities

Even though the Heliconius is tiny, it has a brain structure called “mushroom bodies” that handles learning and memory. This means it can remember where it’s found the best pollen and follow specific routes to get there, almost like it’s sticking to a bus schedule. Imagine a butterfly planning its day out—pretty amazing, right?

Dr. Max Farnworth from the University of Bristol has been studying the Heliconius brain, and he discovered that it grows in a very unique way. Unlike most animals, where brain cells grow evenly, the Heliconius’s brain cells grow at different rates, creating what’s known as a “mosaic” pattern. This helps the butterfly develop specific skills, like long-term visual memory and pattern recognition, which is why it’s so good at navigating.

Butterflies on a Bus Route

One of the coolest things about the Heliconius is how it uses its memory. Instead of randomly flying around, it follows a set path between flowers, like a bus following its route. This behaviour, called “trap-lining,” requires both planning and memory, showing just how clever this little creature is.

“Rather than having a random route of foraging, these butterflies apparently choose fixed routes between floral resources—akin to a bus route,” explained Dr. Stephen Montgomery, a co-author of the study. It’s a behaviour that’s rare in insects, making the Heliconius even more remarkable.

Why Does It Matter?

The Heliconius butterfly is changing how we think about intelligence in animals. Traditionally, scientists have believed that bigger brains mean better cognitive abilities. But this tiny butterfly is showing that it’s not about size—it’s about how the brain is organized. Even with its small brain, the Heliconius can perform complex tasks like planning routes and remembering locations, skills we’d usually associate with much larger animals.

This discovery has opened up new questions about how brains evolve and adapt to specific challenges. Researchers are excited to see what else they can learn from studying the Heliconius, especially about how its unique brain structure helps it survive.

A Reminder of Nature’s Wonders (and Lessons for Us!)

The story of the Heliconius is a reminder that intelligence can come in all shapes and sizes. Even the tiniest creatures can have remarkable abilities, and there’s still so much to discover about the natural world. It also shows us the value of memory, planning, and adaptability—qualities that resonate here at Wellings.

Just like the Heliconius butterfly follows its paths, many in our community chart their unique courses in life, relying on their wisdom, experiences, and a sense of purpose. We celebrate those qualities because, at Wellings, we understand that every individual journey is a testament to resilience and thoughtful planning. So next time you see a butterfly fluttering by, remember—it might just be a tiny genius on a carefully planned route, just like many of us making our way through life with a bit of grace and a lot of determination!

in Carefreedom Living® Posted by My Wellings

Pet Besties How We Celebrate Them at Wellings

As we navigate the different stages of life, one thing remains constant: 

The companionship of our beloved pets. 

At Wellings, we understand that pets are more than just animals—they’re family. They offer unconditional love, a sense of purpose, and endless moments of joy. That’s why we not only welcome but celebrate the presence of pets in our community, recognizing the vital role they play in our well-being, especially as we age.

Companionship Beyond Words

A pet’s companionship can bring a sense of comfort and fulfillment that is unmatched. As we grow older, this bond becomes even more profound. Whether it’s a wagging tail greeting you at the door or a soft purr by your side, pets provide the emotional support we need to navigate life’s challenges. They are loyal listeners, and trusted confidants, and never fail to make us feel loved, even on the most difficult days.

At Wellings, we see the power of this companionship every day, and we cherish the bond between our members and their furry (or feathered!) best friends. Pets have an incredible ability to lift our spirits, offering a sense of belonging that enhances our overall happiness.

Pets and Health: A Perfect Match

The benefits of having a pet extend far beyond the emotional bond—they have tangible positive effects on our physical health as well. Pets keep us active and engaged, whether it’s through daily walks, playing fetch, or simply taking care of their needs. For many of us, our pets are our wellness partners, motivating us to stay healthy and active.

Studies show that pets can help reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and improve heart health. In fact, just the act of petting a dog or cat can release calming endorphins, helping us feel more relaxed and at peace. At Wellings, we encourage this connection between pet ownership and well-being, recognizing that our pets help keep us feeling young, energetic, and full of life.

Building Community Through Pets

Pets are natural community builders. They have a way of sparking conversations and creating connections between people who might not otherwise cross paths. At Wellings, pets often serve as the perfect icebreakers, helping members bond over shared experiences and stories about their animals.

Whether it’s meeting a fellow dog owner during a morning walk or gathering in our pet-friendly spaces for a chat, pets foster a sense of community that brings us closer together. They remind us that we’re not alone, offering moments of joy and laughter that create a strong sense of belonging.

The Importance of Routine and Purpose

As we age, having a sense of routine and purpose becomes essential to our well-being. Pets provide this in a beautiful way. Caring for a pet—whether it’s feeding, walking, or simply spending time with them—adds structure to our day and gives us a sense of responsibility.

This daily routine is not just beneficial for our pets; it’s also incredibly rewarding for us. The joy of watching your dog wag its tail as you grab the leash or hearing your cat’s contented purr reminds us that we’re making a positive impact in another being’s life. This mutual care helps create purpose and fulfillment, enriching our lives in ways that go beyond the ordinary.

Why We Celebrate Pets at Wellings

At Wellings, we see pets as more than companions—they’re a celebration of life itself. They bring joy, warmth, and connection to our community, reminding us of the simple pleasures that come from unconditional love and loyalty. Pets encourage us to live in the moment, to embrace the everyday adventures that make life at Wellings so special.

That’s why we open our doors and hearts to our members’ pets, knowing that they contribute to the vibrant, dynamic environment that makes Wellings unique. Together, we celebrate the bond between humans and animals, understanding that pets help us live not just longer, but better.

in Carefreedom Living®, Healthy Aging Posted by My Wellings

Boosting Your Energy Naturally

Maintaining steady energy throughout the day becomes more critical as we age; sometimes, energy is more complex. 

But there’s good news! 

There are simple, natural ways to boost yourself that are easy to incorporate into your daily routine. 

As members of the Welling community, finding those small habits that make a big difference can help you stay vibrant and energized all day.

Let’s start with one of the most straightforward yet powerful tricks: let in more natural light. By opening the blinds in the morning, you let sunlight fill your space, which naturally signals your body to wake up and feel more alert. Sunlight helps regulate your circadian rhythm, ensuring you stay energized during the day and get a good night’s sleep later.

If you’re looking for an easy way to stimulate your senses, try aromatherapy. Something as simple as drinking peppermint tea or using a few drops of peppermint essential oil can do wonders for your energy. Peppermint has been shown to increase alertness and brain activity, leaving you feeling more focused and awake.

Another quick energy booster is to take a few deep breaths. Deep breathing sends more oxygen to your brain and muscles, instantly helping you feel more energized. It’s a great way to take a break, reset, and recharge.

If you like chewing gum, here’s some good news—chewing a piece of sugar-free gum (especially peppermint-flavored) can increase alertness. The simple act of chewing stimulates blood flow to your brain, and the refreshing flavor of peppermint enhances that effect, giving you a quick mental lift.

Music can also be an energizing tool. Sing along to a song you love or listen to an upbeat tune, and notice how quickly your mood lifts. Music has a remarkable power to elevate your spirits, reduce stress, and bring a burst of energy when you need it most.

Physical movement, even in small doses, can be incredibly effective. A few minutes of stretching or taking a brief walk can improve circulation and help shake off feelings of fatigue. Regular, light activity keeps your energy flowing throughout the day.

One common cause of fatigue is dehydration, so make sure you’re staying hydrated. Drinking water or herbal teas, like ginger or ginseng, can stabilize your energy levels. Even mild dehydration can make you feel sluggish, so keep a water bottle close by and sip throughout the day.

When hunger strikes, reach for a small snack that’s rich in protein or fiber, like a handful of nuts or some yogurt. These foods can help stabilize your blood sugar, preventing the energy crashes that leave you feeling drained.

In addition to these quick fixes, mindfulness practices or engaging in a hobby can do wonders for your energy. A few minutes of meditation or simply focusing on a creative activity like knitting, painting, or gardening can refresh your mind, reduce stress, and energize you.

Incorporating these small habits into your routine can significantly impact your energy and well-being. 

Whether you open your blinds to let in the sunlight, sip on peppermint tea, or sing along to a favorite song, these natural approaches can help you stay active and engaged throughout the day. 

By making these simple adjustments, you’ll feel more vibrant, focused, and ready to enjoy the things you love. Staying energized is about finding what works best for you, and these accessible practices can help you maintain a healthy, fulfilling lifestyle every day.

in Carefreedom Living®, Health and Fitness, Healthy Aging Posted by My Wellings

Why We Should All Dance: It’s Good for Your Body, Soul, and Even Your Brain

There’s something magical about dancing. It’s a universal language transcending age, culture, and time. Whether you’re moving to the rhythm of a waltz, shaking it to the beat of rock and roll, or swaying gently to a slow ballad, dancing makes us feel alive. But beyond the joy it brings, dancing offers incredible benefits for our bodies, minds, and souls. In many ways, dancing is more than just a form of expression—it’s medicine, body acceptance, and a celebration of community all rolled into one.

Dancing as Medicine

We often think of exercise as something we do out of necessity, a task to check off our list for our health. But dancing flips that notion on its head. It’s an activity that combines the physical benefits of exercise with the sheer enjoyment of moving to music. When we dance, our heart rate increases, our muscles strengthen, and our flexibility improves. Dancing gets the blood pumping, which is excellent for cardiovascular health, and it also helps with balance and coordination, especially as we age.

But the benefits of dancing go far beyond the physical. Research has shown that dancing can improve memory and cognitive function, reducing the risk of dementia and other age-related cognitive declines. The mental stimulation that comes from learning dance steps, following rhythms, and coordinating movements is a workout for the brain as much as for the body. In this way, dancing is a holistic medicine—nurturing our physical and mental well-being.

Dance as Body Acceptance

In a world that often pressures us to look a certain way or conform to specific standards, dancing offers a powerful form of body acceptance. When you dance, the focus shifts from how you look to how you feel. It’s about the joy of movement, the freedom to express yourself, and the connection between your mind and body. Dancing allows you to appreciate what your body can do rather than worrying about how it measures up to others.

This shift in perspective can be incredibly empowering. It encourages us to embrace our bodies as they are, celebrating their unique strengths and capabilities. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or someone who’s never set foot on a dance floor, dancing reminds us that everybody is beautiful in motion. It’s a practice of self-love, where moving becomes an affirmation of our worth, just as we are.

Dance as Community

One of the most beautiful aspects of dancing is its ability to unite people. Dance is a communal experience, whether at a social event, a dance class or even in your living room with loved ones. It breaks down barriers, creates connections, and fosters a sense of belonging. When we dance with others, we share a collective joy, a mutual expression of happiness that strengthens our bonds.

Dancing can be a vital source of social interaction for seniors, especially. It offers opportunities to meet new people, engage in group activities, and stay connected with the community. In a world where loneliness can be a significant challenge, dancing provides a way to stay engaged, active, and socially fulfilled.

The Power of Dance

Dancing is more than just moving to music—it’s a celebration of life. It’s good for your body, giving you the physical exercise you need in a way that feels joyful and effortless. It’s good for your soul, offering a path to self-acceptance and love for the body you inhabit. And it’s good for your brain, keeping you sharp, engaged, and connected to others.

So, the next time you hear your favorite song, don’t hesitate—get up and dance. Let the music move you, and in doing so, you’ll be doing something extraordinary for your whole self. After all, dancing isn’t just an activity; it’s a way to live fully, embrace who you are, and connect with the world.

in Health and Fitness Posted by My Wellings

Are Life’s Obstacles Stumbling Blocks or Building Blocks for a Better Life?

Have you ever met an obstacle you liked? If you have, I’d like to give you a high five. I’ve never met an obstacle I liked. My brain slams on the brakes the moment it senses a potential stumbling block; all systems are called into action to assess the situation before proceeding. If that sounds at all familiar it’s because you’re human and we humans are like cats waiting for a mouse, we’re always on the lookout for danger, sometimes to the point of sabotaging our own goals and dreams.

“We all have challenges. You can let them be obstacles or roadblocks, or you can use them.”
– Paralympian, Amy Purdy

Amy Purdy fully embraces obstacles now, after navigating them for over twenty years. As a young woman with a thriving massage therapy practice, Amy thought she had the flu. It turned out to be meningitis; Amy lost both legs below the knee and got herself on prosthetics as soon as she could. You’d probably be more familiar with this young American as a Paralympian snowboarder and Dancing with the Stars runner up because that’s what she did with the obstacle presented to her. Amy 2.0, as she called herself then, saw the obstacle, processed what happened, accepted the situation, and figured out how to work with it, so that she could achieve the new dreams and goals she set for herself. She’s had to adapt repeatedly throughout her life as an amputee. Amy is pure inspiration for any of us to turn to, when we come up against something we perceive as an impossible block.

“It’s the hardest things in life—the things that stress you out—that build character and make you stronger. Don’t shy away from uncomfortable situations just because they won’t be easy.”
– Life Coach, Brittany Burgunder

Call them obstacles, or barriers, they’re part of life and we will encounter them at every age and every stage of this adventure. Our inclination is to avoid them but they’re not on our path without purpose. We can’t grow when we resist what challenges us. It is true that what we resist persists, so that the more we push back, the more we’re pushed back. Our resistance to life’s trials points to fear. One of my mentors, the late personal-development author and speaker, Dr. Wayne Dyer often used the acronym f. e. a. r. to symbolize “false evidence appearing real,” implying that much of what we fear is a result of our beautiful brains imagining the worst-case scenario or a dramatic outcome with no basis in our current reality. It feels real and when we entertain fear in this way, it can delay our personal growth; even sabotage our goals and dreams.

When we undertake to work with an obstacle, we tap into our innate resourcefulness, we build resilience, increase our self- awareness, and learn valuable lessons. Not to say that fear isn’t useful; in many ways it’s a helpful tool, telling us to turn back or at least not proceed immediately. Can’t swim? Then having a healthy fear of water will keep you safe. I like to use the example of crossing the road: if we look both ways and there are no cars coming, then we can proceed but stepping out on to the road without checking first can lead to no good. Fear is all about survival ultimately and when we recognize it for what it is, it can be helpful instead of harmful. Keep in mind that as we age, fear tends to pull up a chair and make itself comfortable; what we want to do is get comfortable being uncomfortable in the company of fear.

“Every challenge, every adversity, contains within it the seeds of opportunity and growth.”
– Author, Roy Bennett

Author Roy Bennett said it best: every challenge has within it the seeds of opportunity and growth. What if fear prevented you from going to the event where you met your partner? What if you let fear of failure stop you from inquiring about an opportunity you really wanted. What if you turned everything around and recognized that your superpower of courage is always there, waiting for you to call on it, to support you as you face whatever you might be feeling fearful about? What if we put obstacles, barriers and challenges in proper perspective and recognized them not as stop signs but as learning opportunities, so that instead of saying “I can’t” right out of the gate, we ask “what is this here to teach me or what can I learn from this?”

We’ve all been gifted with an unlimited supply of courage and sometimes we must invest it in shifting our focus from fear to possibility, so that we can see beyond the obstacle or barrier in front of us. It’s always in hindsight we see that had we not navigated our way through something challenging we wouldn’t have been ready to take on something new. It’s important to accept that some life circumstances are out of our control but our power lives in knowing that much of what we perceive as life’s obstacles are really what we call in retrospect life’s building blocks.

Tip: To help calm your system when you come up against an obstacle try box breathing. Breathe in for a count of four, hold your breath for a count of four, exhale for a count of four and hold your breath for a count of four. Repeat 10 times and notice the calm feeling in your body. Controlling the breath signals to the body and the brain that everything is okay.

If you’d like to read more about Amy Purdy, check out this article in Women’s Health: Click here. 

in Carefreedom Living®, Healthy Aging Posted by Kathie Donovan

A Little Humor

Laughter is the best medicine, and a good joke can go a long way in brightening our day. So, without further ado, here’s a little humor to add some lightness to your day:

“I told my wife she should embrace her mistakes. She hugged me.”

“I’m reading a book about anti-gravity. It’s impossible to put down!”

“Why don’t skeletons fight each other? They don’t have the guts.”

“I told my doctor I broke my arm in two places. He told me to stop going to those places.”

“Why did the scarecrow win an award? Because he was outstanding in his field!”

That reminds me of this one…

A man is driving down a country road when he spots a farmer standing in the middle of a vast grass field. He pulls the car over to the side of the road and notices the farmer just standing there, doing nothing. The man gets out of the car, walks up to the farmer, and asks, “Excuse me, but what are you doing?”

The farmer replies, “I’m trying to win a Nobel Prize.”

Confused, the man asks, “How do you expect to win a Nobel Prize in the middle of a field?”

The farmer answers, “Well, I heard they give the Nobel Prize to outstanding people in their field!”

These jokes are perfect for sharing over coffee, chatting with friends, or even lightening up a tough day. 

Humor is universal; sometimes, it takes a quick one-liner to make someone’s day a little brighter. 

So go ahead, share these jokes, and spread some smiles.

in Carefreedom Living® Posted by My Wellings

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