tag:www.naturalawakenings.com,2005:/categories/in-print?page=8In-Print | Natural Awakenings Magazine Page 8Healthy Living Healthy Planet2024-01-01T09:39:07-05:00urn:uuid:befbb7ef-517a-4bb5-a4b7-a00c5464cf242023-11-16T16:43:59-05:002024-01-01T09:39:07-05:00Cold Medicine Found Not to Work2023-11-28 06:30:00 -0500Kristy Mayer<p>A U.S. Food and Drug Administration <a href="https://www.fda.gov/" target="_blank">(FDA)</a> advisory panel voted unanimously that oral phenylephrine was not effective in unblocking sinuses and clearing stuffy noses. The drug has been in use for nearly a century and is an ingredient in more than 200 over-the-counter decongestants. Drug stores have begun removing these products from the shelves.<br></p><p>The decision by the FDA was the result of decades of research and an unwavering commitment by two University of Florida pharmacists to remove decongestants from the market that contained an ingredient that was no better than a placebo.<br></p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakenings.com">Natural Awakenings National</a></small></p>urn:uuid:b070048b-0e52-4188-a945-bc43062d36102023-11-16T16:49:43-05:002024-01-01T09:39:06-05:00Diagnosing Alzheimer’s Using Artificial Intelligence2023-11-28 06:30:00 -0500Kristy Mayer<p>According to the <a href="https://act.alz.org/site/Donation2?df_id=51079&51079.donation=form1&mfc_pref=T&utm_source=google&utm_medium=paidsearch&utm_campaign=giving_google&s_subsrc=giving_google&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQiAmNeqBhD4ARIsADsYfTelge3_pfdoCR5a0tM9BQuCvM3PCaRgsPwEsIt4YitL-yXQlaFaXAEaAjU1EALw_wcB" target="_blank">Alzheimer’s Association</a>, more than 6 million Americans and their families are living with Alzheimer’s disease. To determine if a person has the disease and rule out other possible causes of cognitive disfunction, doctors use several methods and tools, such as memory and problem-solving tests, biomarker tests and brain scans. Companies and scientists are engaged in harnessing the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to improve diagnosis. Here are three examples.<br></p><p><a href="https://www.retispec.com/" target="_blank">RetiSpec</a>, a Toronto-based medical imaging company, claims to have developed an AI algorithm for its eye scanner that can detect signs of Alzheimer’s 20 years before symptoms develop, as well as Parkinson’s, vascular dementia and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). </p><p>California-based <a href="https://neurovision.com/" target="_blank">NeuroVision Imaging</a> uses its AI-enhanced retinal imaging system to look for the buildup of certain proteins or blood vessels with a twisted shape, which are both associated with Alzheimer’s disease.<br></p><p><a href="https://medicine.yale.edu/profile/rui-chang/" target="_blank">Rui Chang, Ph.D</a>., a researcher at the University of Arizona College of Medicine, built an AI model to identify genetic triggers linked to Alzheimer’s, which would otherwise potentially take a decade to identify. His model will be tested in a clinical trial led by PATH Biotech, an AI-powered medical solutions company founded by Chang.<br></p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakenings.com">Natural Awakenings National</a></small></p>urn:uuid:ddddaf3f-3766-4329-acfe-d42a2f6a33f62023-11-16T16:54:51-05:002024-01-01T09:39:04-05:00Hitting the Snooze Button2023-11-28 06:30:00 -0500Kristy Mayer<p>In a two-part study published in the <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/journal/13652869" target="_blank">Journal of Sleep Research</a>, scientists surveyed 1,732 individuals and found that 69 percent use the snooze feature on their morning alarm, and of those people, 60 percent usually or always fall asleep between alarms. Snoozing is more common among younger people and night owls. For those using this feature, drowsiness and shorter sleep is more common. <br></p><p>The study also sought to determine the effects of snoozing on 31 habitual snoozers. The first morning, the participants repeatedly hit the button to gain 30 extra minutes, and on the second morning, the participants got up on the first alarm. The researchers reported that 30 minutes of snoozing either improved or did not affect performance on cognitive tests administered directly upon rising, as compared to an abrupt awakening. There were no clear effects from snoozing on cortisol awakening response, morning sleepiness, mood or overnight sleep.<br></p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakenings.com">Natural Awakenings National</a></small></p>urn:uuid:120951f6-15be-4eb6-b3cc-0022eca9588b2023-11-16T17:02:36-05:002024-01-01T09:39:04-05:00Red Light Therapy to Reduce Glucose Levels2023-11-28 06:30:00 -0500Kristy Mayer<p>The U.S. Centers for Disease Control estimates that 37.3 million Americans, or 11.3 percent of the population, have diabetes, which means the body does not produce enough insulin, causing too much blood glucose (sugar) to stay in the bloodstream. Over time, diabetes can cause serious health problems, such as heart disease, vision loss and kidney disease.<br></p><p>Researchers from the <a href="https://www.london.ac.uk/" target="_blank">University of London </a>conducted a study of the effects of red light therapy on blood sugar levels. In the study, 15 participants received 670 nanometers of red light onto approximately 800 square centimeters of their exposed back for 15 minutes. The 15-person control group had the same equipment placed on their back, but the light was not turned on. <br></p><p>The result was a significant reduction in blood sugar levels in the group exposed to red light following a glucose intake by the participants. Over a two-hour period following the therapy, maximum glucose spiking was reduced by 5.1 percent. Red light exposure can be used to reduce blood glucose spikes following meals as a safe, non-invasive treatment for diabetes management at home.<br></p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakenings.com">Natural Awakenings National</a></small></p>urn:uuid:6188aa6c-e2d8-4308-9357-e73c069554552023-11-16T17:06:44-05:002024-01-01T09:39:03-05:00Floods Linked to Heart and Lung Disease2023-11-28 06:30:00 -0500Kristy Mayer<p>According to the <a href="https://action.nrdc.org/donation/2272-year-end-inst-100423?initms=MRDAFGO_c3-FR_SE&ms=MRDAFGO_c3-FR_SE&gclid=Cj0KCQiAmNeqBhD4ARIsADsYfTfkyv6FrIBNI6ShrC2XYD13fZPaX3LoQ6WZrXS8pfqVyh037kOs-nAaAgvHEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds" target="_blank">Natural Resources Defense Council</a>, floods are the most common natural disasters in the United States. They account for 44 percent of natural disasters worldwide, with 1.81 billion people directly threatened by severe flooding. Global warming and the resulting rise in sea levels and extreme weather events are expected to make the problem worse.<br></p><p>An Australian-led study examined deaths associated with floods across 34 countries over a 10-year period. Researchers found that after a flood, the risk of dying increased by 2.6 percent from cardiovascular disease and 4.9 percent from respiratory diseases. The increased mortality risks persisted for up to 50 days for cardiovascular deaths and 60 days for respiratory deaths after the disaster. The researchers called on governments to monitor and protect citizens from the health impacts of flooding for weeks, not just days after the event.<br></p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakenings.com">Natural Awakenings National</a></small></p>urn:uuid:b37396bc-e6be-4bad-8059-b73724a9a2bb2023-11-16T17:29:00-05:002024-01-01T09:39:01-05:00Homemade Pet Playthings: Easily Crafted Toys and Treats2023-11-28 06:30:00 -0500Ruth Roberts, DVM, CVA, CVH, CVFT, NAN<p>As pet guardians, we know the joy of spoiling our beloved furry and feathered friends with toys, treats and accessories. While such diversions can offer hours of fun and bonding, some store-bought items can pose dangers, including choking hazards, intestinal blockage and damage, or exposure to harmful toxins used in plastics.<br></p><p><br></p><p>Safer, non-toxic options can be handcrafted using items found around the home. By recycling materials and avoiding the packaging that comes with store-bought items, do-it-yourself toys and accessories are more eco-friendly and sustainable. Guardians can even involve their pet friends in a DIY project as a way to spend quality time together, have fun and foster a stronger bond. Here are a few ideas.</p><p><b></b><br></p><h3><b>Recycled T-Shirt Tug Toy</b></h3><p>Dogs love a good game of tug-o-war, and this project is a simple way to repurpose old T-shirts. Using scissors, cut a garment into thin strips and braid them together tightly. Tie a knot at each end and enjoy a fun and safe exercise toy.</p><p><br></p><h3><b>Catnip Toys</b></h3><p>Make catnip toys a feline friend will love with a few pieces of felt, some cotton stuffing or shredded pieces of old clothes, and catnip. First, cut the felt into small shapes like birds or fish. Next, sew two sides together, leaving a small opening. Sprinkle one tablespoon of catnip over the stuffing, fill the toy and sew up the opening.</p><p><br></p><h3><b>Feline Scratching Post</b></h3><p>Scratching is an essential behavior for cats, but commercial scratch posts can be expensive. Instead, create one using recycled materials like cardboard or leftover carpet. Cut the material into a long rectangular shape and wrap it tightly around a sturdy base, such as a wooden post or pole. Rub the material with catnip and watch the kitties scratch to their hearts’ content.</p><p><br></p><h3><b>Rabbit Castle</b></h3><p>For rabbits, consider converting a cardboard box into a cozy manor. First, cut doors and windows into the box and make sure the edges are smooth to avoid injury. Place a soft blanket or cushion as flooring to create a comfortable space for the bunny. Add some tunnels made from cardboard and watch them have fun exploring their new hideaway home.</p><p><br></p><h3><b>Pet Bandana</b></h3><p>This project is a bit more time intensive, but the result is worth it. To create a stylish pet bandana, simply cut fabric into a triangle shape, hem the edges and add a snap or tie to secure it around the pet's neck. Personalize it by embroidering the pet’s name or a fun design.</p><p><br></p><h3><b>Birdseed Ornaments</b></h3><p>For avian lovers, birdseed ornaments in the yard are a fun and easy project that can involve the whole family. First, prepare unflavored gelatin in a bowl following the instructions on the package. Add a tablespoon of corn syrup for each package of gelatin used. Stir birdseed into the gelatin mixture until the liquid disappears. Place the mixture in the refrigerator for about ten minutes or until it firms up. Fill cookie cutters with the seed mixture, press down firmly and insert a two-inch piece of a straw near the top of the ornament. Refrigerate overnight. Gently remove the ornaments from the cookie cutters and replace the straw with a string. These homemade feeders will nourish neighborhood birds during the winter months when food is scarce.</p><p><br></p><h3><b>Cat Teaser</b></h3><p>Cats love string. Unfortunately, playing with a piece of string, yarn or ribbon can lead to life-threatening complications, as they can become entangled in a cat’s intestine. A homemade cat wand allows them to chase, bat and chew without risk. Cut cotton, leather, sisal or hemp into strips about one foot long. Glue the strips of material one piece at a time to the end of a 12-inch wooden dowel or metal tube. Continue adding the material strips to the end of the rod until there are four or five layers. Tie a piece of material around the rod next to the last layer and tightly wrap it around the ends of the other strands to keep everything in place. End with a knot and a dab of glue, if necessary.</p><p><br></p><h3><b>Sock Toys</b></h3><p>Make an inexpensive, washable ball using those mismatched socks that seem to magically appear at the end of the laundry. Stuff a long sock with three other socks and tightly tie it off to make a solid ball. Another option is to braid several socks and tie them together at either end to create a durable rope.</p><p><br></p><p><i>Ruth Roberts is an integrative veterinarian and holistic health coach for pets, as well as the creator of </i>The Original CrockPet Diet<i>. Learn more at </i><a href="http://www.DrRuthRoberts.com" target="_blank">DrRuthRoberts.com</a><i>.</i></p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakenings.com">Natural Awakenings National</a></small></p>urn:uuid:29287c20-aa7b-4bbe-8e08-125ea4e1263d2023-11-16T17:37:02-05:002024-01-01T09:39:01-05:00 Treating Ourselves2023-11-28 06:30:00 -0500Marlaina Donato<p>For many of us, this time of year is a whirlwind of well-meaning obligations, and we struggle to hold onto the intended joy of the season. Somewhere between the office holiday party and making a toast on New Year’s Eve, it is easy to lose sight of the magic because we lose sight of ourselves.<br></p><p>During this hour of stillness when nature slows down to restore life force in the very roots, we can make a conscious decision to give back to ourselves by honoring our energy reserves. Being more realistic with our finances and not seeking an escape from holiday stress through overindulgence are holy choices we can make. Deciding not to spread ourselves too thin swaps exhausting multitasking for authenticity and the pleasure of being in the present moment. Re-defining priorities without misplaced guilt allows us to give others our undiluted presence.<br></p><p>As the winter solstice nears and another chapter concludes, how much lighter might we feel if we bless ourselves with the soul-necessity of inner peace? How many beautiful memories might we store up as spiritual nourishment for the journey ahead? Just as the solstice kicks off a bit more daylight as we inch toward spring, tending to our own roots not only makes us stronger but also ensures a future harvest from which everyone around us can benefit. <br></p><p><br></p><h3><b>Ideas for a More Balanced Season</b></h3><ul><li>Host a fun, potluck gathering instead of doing all the cooking. </li><li>Say “No” to an event and spend that time with someone that doesn’t have family or holiday plans.</li><li>Instead of a tangible gift, write a heartfelt letter to a loved one and lavishly decorate the paper and envelope.</li><li>Choose a morning to sleep in late or make yourself a delicious breakfast.</li><li>Enjoy the unique beauty of winter, pausing to notice a sunset or deepening twilight.</li><li>Share treasured stories and memories with a gathering of friends.</li><li>Avoid rushing and risk running behind.</li><li>Decide to not harbor any regrets.</li><li>Abandon perfection.</li></ul><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><i>Marlaina Donato is an author, multimedia expressionist and cultivator of women’s wild well-being. Connect at </i><a href="http://jaguarflower.art/" target="_blank">JaguarFlower.art</a><i>.</i></p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakenings.com">Natural Awakenings National</a></small></p>urn:uuid:3f62acc1-4bc8-4537-b42d-bb4772d93f412023-11-16T18:07:26-05:002024-01-02T09:41:56-05:00Exploring Intermittent Fasting: Tips and Benefits for Improved Health2023-11-28 06:30:00 -0500Steven Masley, M.D., FAHA, FACN, CNS<p>Fasting has long played a role in major religions, but we did not begin to understand it from a scientific standpoint until <a href="https://www.nobelprize.org/prizes/medicine/2016/ohsumi/facts/" target="_blank">Yoshinori Ohsumi</a>, a Japanese cell biologist, discovered how cells recycle and renew themselves during fasting, for which he was awarded a Nobel Prize in 2016. Since then, multiple clinical trials have proven the health benefits of intermittent fasting (IF).<br></p><p><b></b></p><p><b></b><br></p><h4><b>How Intermittent Fasting Works</b></h4><p>IF influences the body's blood sugar control, energy production, gut bacteria load and hormone levels. When abstaining from food for a period of time, the body begins to rely on fat stores for cellular fuel. This shift in energy metabolism also allows for enhanced autophagy, a process that removes damaged cellular components and promotes cellular renewal and repair.<br></p><p><b></b><br></p><h4><b>Regimen Types</b></h4><ul><li><b>Time-Restricted Feeding (TRF)</b> involves limiting the daily eating window to a specific period, typically eight to 10 hours, followed by a fasting period of 14 to 16 hours. This regimen can be followed daily or limited to a few days per week.</li><li><b>Alternate-Day Fasting</b> involves alternating between days of normal caloric intake and days of severe calorie restriction.</li><li><b>5:2 Diet</b> entails consuming a normal diet for five days and restricting calorie intake to 500 to 600 calories on two non-consecutive days.</li><li><b>The Warrior Diet</b> involves fasting for 20 hours followed by a four-hour eating window, typically in the evening.</li></ul><p><br></p><p><br></p><h4><b>Selecting a Regimen</b></h4><p>All forms of IF have similar health benefits. Each approach has its own merits, and it is crucial to choose the one that aligns with personal goals, lifestyle, fasting tolerance and overall well-being. Before adopting an IF routine, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional.<br></p><p>The easiest approach for many people is TRF, where eating stops at 9 p.m., breakfast is limited to coffee or tea without sugar or milk and eating resumes at noon. TRF has been shown to have similar benefits if followed every day or even just three days per week.<br></p><p>Fasting for a minimum of 12 hours provides some benefits, but a fasting period of 15 hours or more often yields greater benefits. The best fasting hours depend on an individual’s work schedule and goals. Some individuals may find it more convenient to begin their fast in the evening and skip breakfast, while others prefer to omit dinner and have an early lunch, thus extending their overnight fast. The most critical factor is finding a pattern that can be maintained consistently.<br></p><p><b><br></b></p><h4><b>Benefits of Intermittent Fasting</b><br><b></b></h4><p>Intermittent fasting has been associated with numerous health benefits, including enhanced cognitive performance, weight loss, reduced cardiovascular risk factors and better blood sugar control.<br></p><p>A study published in <a href="https://www.cell.com/cell-metabolism/home" target="_blank">Cell Metabolism</a> suggests that IF might correct circadian rhythm disruptions, which are believed to play a role in the progression of Alzheimer's disease. The researchers found that IF improves memory and reduces the accumulation of fibrous amyloid proteins in the brain. Other studies have also found that IF enhances memory, attention, brain processing speed and cognitive function.<br></p><p>Multiple randomized clinical trials have shown that intermittent fasting is effective for modest weight loss, varying from five to 15 pounds, as well as reductions in waist circumference, body mass index and cardiometabolic risk factors. </p><p>IF is a safe dietary option to improve several markers of cardiometabolic health. A meta-analysis of 130 randomized clinical trials of subjects following all forms of IF showed improvements in insulin sensitivity, plus improvements in weight, cholesterol profiles, fasting blood sugar levels and blood pressure control. These findings suggest that IF is effective in helping to prevent heart disease.<br></p><p>An article in the <a href="https://restorativemedicine.org/journal/" target="_blank">Journal of Restorative Medicine</a> highlighted the potential benefits of IF in preventing and treating cancer, although more research is needed. The authors noted that IF can promote recycling of cells, enhance DNA repair in normal cells, improve cell regeneration in tissues and protect against the toxic effects of chemotherapy.<br></p><p><b></b><br></p><h4><b>Safety and Other Considerations</b></h4><p>Intermittent fasting is generally considered safe for most healthy individuals. However, young children, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and individuals with epilepsy, a history of eating disorders and those taking medications that can lower blood sugar levels should exercise caution or avoid fasting altogether.<br></p><p>While intermittent fasting can offer numerous benefits, some individuals may experience increased hunger and food cravings, poor sleep quality, an excessive drop in blood sugar levels in individuals prone to hypoglycemia and adverse effects on hormonal balance, especially for women that are menstruating.<br></p><p><br></p><p><i>Steven Masley is a physician, nutritionist, trained chef, clinical professor at the University of South Florida and creator of health programs for public television. He is the author of </i>The 30-Day Heart Tune-Up<i>. Learn more at </i><a href="http://www.DrMasley.com" target="_blank">DrMasley.com</a><i>.</i></p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakenings.com">Natural Awakenings National</a></small></p>urn:uuid:a0d41c57-494a-4ad4-980e-b2489c38a4492023-11-16T18:16:27-05:002024-01-08T10:49:14-05:00Deepak Chopra on the Quantum Body and Achieving Peace2023-11-28 06:30:00 -0500Kimberly Whittle<p>Deepak Chopra, M.D., is a pioneer in the field of mind-body medicine and one of the most inspiring philosophers of our time. He is the founder of The Chopra Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to research on well-being and humanitarianism, and Chopra Global, a health company at the intersection of science and spirituality. Chopra also is a clinical professor of family medicine and public health at the University of California San Diego and serves as a senior scientist with Gallup Organization. He has authored more than 90 books translated into more than 43 languages, including numerous bestsellers. Chopra collaborated with Jack Tuszynski, Ph.D., a physicist, and Brian Fertig, M.D., an endocrinologist, on his latest book, <i>Quantum Body: The New Science of Living a Longer, Healthier, More Vital Life.</i><br></p><p><b></b><br></p><h4><b><i>What inspired you to write this book? </i></b></h4><p>It is a celebration of the most surprising turn in my life. When I was practicing medicine at an exhaustive, hectic pace more than 30 years ago, I started meditating and had a life-changing breakthrough vision of a human body shimmering as a visual image—the quantum mechanical body. I became a writer, and my book, <i>Quantum Healing</i>, gave me my first boost. But at the time, the topic of meditation was considered fringe. Thirty-seven years later, the fringe has moved to the center, and new studies are overturning long-held mainstream medical beliefs. Hence, the time seemed right to take a second bite of the apple.<br></p><p><b></b><br></p><h4><b><i>What do you mean by the quantum body?</i></b></h4><p>Any physical body is an activity in consciousness. You experience your body through the five senses. Physical reality is experienced in the field of awareness that is outside of our body, and the field of awareness inside our body is called the interoceptive awareness. Meditation helps us transcend our physical and mental body and is the spirit of consciousness. Pure consciousness is the source of mind-body and the universe. The causal body is the source of every experience we have; it is your soul and the same thing as your quantum body. Quantum body exists to bring about all the healing needed at every level.<br></p><p><b></b><br></p><h4><b><i>How can we modulate our epigenetic activity and restore homeostasis to reduce stress and inflammation?</i></b></h4><p>Mind and body are inseparably one. Increase your sensitivity to interoception and the whole of your inner and outer being will be affected. You can do this through meditation, practicing vagal breathing, doing yoga and improving your sedentary lifestyle. The greatest gift of self-awareness is to live with love, truth, beauty and bliss as your goal. Ultimate well-being requires no less.<br></p><p><b></b><br></p><h4><b><i>Why is the quantum model for well-being important, and how do you plan to reach a critical mass of participants?</i></b></h4><p>Today, everyone is taking sides and is in conflict because they don’t agree with the perspective of others. As long as you engage in recycling trauma, the trauma leads to inflammation and disease in the body and in mental disorders. We have an inflamed world and will never solve this problem by any one side becoming the victor, because the intergenerational trauma will last for hundreds, if not thousands, of years.<br></p><p>This is the history of humanity since we were hunters and gatherers. Now the same tribal mindset spells extinction. We are sleepwalking to extinction unless we wake up. There is no hope for climate change, social and economic justice, racism, prejudice, health or joy. We need to cool down the world’s inflammation by starting with ourselves and creating an ecosystem where we can bring peace to our own families, social environment, ecosystem of relationships and communities; then we can reach a critical mass. A lot of people do agree that consciousness is a field and that we can aspire to a more peaceful, just, sustainable, healthier and joyful world.<br></p><p><a href="https://choprafoundation.org/" target="_blank">The Chopra Foundation</a> has launched two programs. The Certification in the Soul of Leadership is about how you become a spiritual leader, which I have taught at Kellogg [School of Management at Northwestern University] and Columbia [University] and given talks about at Harvard [University]. We received a grant to offer it free of charge. The other certification, Becoming a Peace as the Way Facilitator<b>,</b> is only $9.99. If you can’t afford it, we give it for free. If you focus on these two things and get the critical mass of people out there, the change we want to see in the world will happen.<br></p><p>That you exist should be a perpetual surprise, and you should be full of gratitude for existence itself. That is the most holy and sacred experience that we can have. What I am grateful for is that I exist.<br></p><p><br></p><p>Certification courses can be found at <a href="http://www.cfi.ChopraFoundation.org" target="_blank">cfi.ChopraFoundation.org</a>. To join the <i>Quantum Body</i> book discussion group, visit <a href="http://ChopraQuantumBodyDiscussion.KnoWEwell.com" target="_blank">ChopraQuantumBodyDiscussion.KnoWEwell.com</a><i>.</i> <br></p><div class="image-medium"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Quantum-Body-Science-Living-Healthier-ebook/dp/B0BXKLMHV3"><img alt="" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1075944/fill/300x0/WW-DChopraBookCover.jpg?timestamp=1700176370"></a></div><p> </p><p><b></b><br></p><p><i>Kimberly Whittle is the founder and CEO of KnoWEwell, P.B.C. and the CEO of Natural Awakenings Publishing Corporation.</i></p><p><b></b></p><p><b></b></p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakenings.com">Natural Awakenings National</a></small></p>urn:uuid:efea64d2-6f12-4cb7-afb2-8d54cc9847252023-11-16T19:58:46-05:002024-01-01T09:38:55-05:00The Skills Children Need: How to Help Kids Thrive Into Adulthood2023-11-28 06:30:00 -0500Jennifer Zethner, RN, MS, CPNP<p>Skills learned at a young age are pivotal in shaping the development of children. As parents, educators and caregivers, we want them to develop into well-rounded, successful adults. Beyond academic knowledge, there are essential character and life skills that they need to master to help them grow into responsible, empathetic and resilient individuals. <br></p><p><br></p><p><b>Fostering</b> <b>Skill Development</b></p><p><br></p><p>“Character skills should be intentionally taught and reinforced throughout a child's educational journey,” says Ronald Bubnowski, an elementary school principal and Boy Scouts of America leader in New Jersey. “When we teach kids character skills, we are investing in the future generation of change-makers and leaders who will make this world a better place.” Character skills contribute to moral and ethical growth and help equip children to face the challenges of the world with confidence and integrity. <br></p><p>Life skills are acquired gradually, starting from a very young age. As soon as children start interacting with their environment, they begin to develop fundamental skills. According to Laura Markham, a clinical psychologist and founder of <a href="https://www.ahaparenting.com/" target="_blank">Aha! Parenting</a>, “Children are never too young to learn life skills.” For example, when a comforting parent tends to a crying baby, the baby learns to trust the people in their world and that they are worthy of being cared for. This is a building block for self-confidence.</p><p>Life skills are not a one-size-fits-all concept. The skills that are most important for children to learn differ depending on their age and stage of development. When they are around 6 to 12 months old, a child can roll, sit, pull up to stand, crawl, vocalize, suck their fingers or pacifier, and hold and study a toy. This is an appropriate time to allow a child to learn how to self-regulate, an important skill for all ages. A good place to practice is during naps and at bedtime. Don’t be surprised that a child lets out only a few cries and then soothes themselves to sleep. <br></p><p>Teaching toddlers life skills is about role modeling; they learn by example. Some key life skills to teach during these years include feeding oneself, brushing teeth, following directions, washing hands, using the bathroom independently, manners and communicating needs and feelings.<br></p><p>By age 3, children start to socialize and make attempts to please others. Most skills acquired at this age come from socializing with other kids their age, whether that’s with siblings, at day care, nursery school, mommy-and-me groups or at the park. They should develop empathy and cooperation. As they begin to explore the world around them unassisted, it is essential to focus on developing basic skills that allow them to feel independent and capable. Some key life skills to teach children during early childhood include tying their shoelaces, dressing themselves, cleaning up their toys and managing simple conflicts with siblings. </p><p>As children move through elementary school, character development expands as part of the development of their identity. They learn more complex skills, such as time management, decision making, the importance of respecting others’ opinions and peaceful conflict resolution.<br></p><h3><br><b>Creating a Learning Environment</b></h3><p><br>Teaching life and character skills to children requires a multifaceted approach involving guidance, practice and positive reinforcement. It is crucial to create a supportive environment that encourages them to explore and learn through hands-on experiences. Here are some effective strategies:</p><p><br></p><ul><li><b>Challenge a child at every age.</b> They are growing fast and what they couldn’t do today they may be ready to do tomorrow.</li><li><b>Lead by example.</b> Children learn best by observing the behaviors and actions of adults around them.</li><li><b>Provide opportunities for practice.</b> Create tasks or chores that allow them to apply the skills they learn to reinforce their understanding and build confidence.</li><li><b>Use storytelling and play.</b> Engaging children in storytelling and play activities can make the process of learning life and character skills more enjoyable and memorable. Through storytelling, children can learn valuable lessons and understand the importance of various skills in different situations.</li><li><b>Encourage independence and problem-solving.</b> Allowing children to make decisions and solve problems on their own fosters independence and critical thinking. By providing guidance and support, adults can empower children to become more self-reliant. “Giving children a safe and supportive environment in which to fail and learn is part of the process, too,” says Bubnowski.</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Visit <a href="http://www.HealthyChildren.org" target="_blank">HealthyChildren.org</a> from the American Academy of Pediatrics, as well as <a href="http://www.Tinyurl.com/LearnTheSignsActEarly" target="_blank">Tinyurl.com/LearnTheSignsActEarly</a> from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control for tools and tips at every stage of a child’s development.</p><p> </p><p><i>Jennifer Zethner is a certified pediatric nurse practitioner and founder of Simply Pediatrics in Northport, New York.</i></p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakenings.com">Natural Awakenings National</a></small></p>