Being intentional about what and when we eat is frequently discussed within the TOPS community. But what would it look like to set a specific intention before a meal begins? Perhaps even prior to starting to cook or prep the ingredients that will be used? Think of it as another way to approach nutrition — with an attitude of gratitude…
Nothing goes perfectly for any of us every single day. Pets get sick. Appliances break. Weekend plans suddenly shift. And somehow, all the laundry is never ever done. When a plethora of “little things” pile up, it gets difficult to maintain the energy to prioritize healthy living. These are the days it gets far too easy to order takeout, skip…
What led me to the kitchen? Is it actual hunger? Or am I merely seeking a tasty distraction from stress, boredom or household chores? Feeling hungry and actual hunger are not always the same thing. In fact, you may recall a previous Wellness Wednesday blog in which I explained the 7 Types of Hunger. But our intellectual understanding of healthy…
As much as I adore having more hours of daylight during the summer, there is a tendency for much of that extra time to get filled with incessant activity. The non-stop stream of date nights, pool time, vacations and cookouts are certainly moments we’re excited about. It’s also common to feel as if an energy boost is needed to stay…
June’s arrival ushers in many perks of summer. However, one of the few downsides to summer is it can be easy to let wellness routines fall by the wayside. Remember: Health is a year-round focus. So use this mini checklist to stay healthy during these warmer months. Smart Skincare “A tan, whether from a tanning bed or the sun, is…
Being in a community with others is a gift. But it can also be challenging to consistently find common ground amongst differing perspectives and personality types. Plus, just as individuals grow and change, the communities we belong to will too. This is true of neighborhoods, familial relationships and our TOPS chapters. Even when individuals agree on common goals, we may…
Burnout is more than just a buzzword—it is a reality many of us are struggling to avoid at home and work. In fact, Forbes recently highlighted a new study that revealed that job burnout is at 66%—an “all-time high” in the United States. And a 2024 report released by the Alzheimer’s Association stated that two in three of unpaid adult caregivers “have…
For many TOPS members, deciding how to use your daily exchanges is typically going to align with the portions of each food and/or condiment(s) that are a part of individual meals and snacks. However, when selecting recipes to feed a whole family or several guests, the number of servings may be equally important. Which is why using the words portion…
Not every type of movement is accessible to all body types. However, limited mobility does not mean that you should forgo engaging in physical activity altogether. Regular exercise provides a health boost in myriad ways, especially in terms of mental fitness and emotional well-being. A study published by the American Medical Association in 2024 stated, “The mental health benefits of…