Help others through volunteering

As we approach the end of the year, we begin thinking of goals not met and resolutions not kept. Many of those have fallen by the wayside quickly, victims of a lack of discipline or ambition.

One area that tends to get a lot of attention is philanthropy. People naturally try to take advantage of tax deductions – hence the rush to donate stuff to Goodwill by Dec. 31 – but many others are sincerely interested in donating to worthy causes.

Giving, of course, has no set time frames or deadlines. There always are needy among us; we tend to think of philanthropy most often as we approach the holiday season. (And are reminded of it by the Salvation Army bell ringers in December.)

You’d like to give, or give more, but cannot. What can you do instead? Give of your time.

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Volunteering can be very rewarding

When I struck on my own in early 2005, I made a point to get more involved in volunteer work. First, I genuinely wanted to help others in some fashion. Second, I could put my writing skills to work for worthwhile causes. Over the years I have volunteered for various organizations in a number of ways. In every case I came away with a really positive feeling.

This past weekend I was again exposed to the value and power of volunteering and donating.

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The mother of all definitions

Get this. On a whim one day–-OK, I’m working on a project–I decide to look up the word “mother” in my trusty Living Webster dictionary. The good book offers several obvious definitions, such as:

Mother and child“The female who gives birth to a child.”

“A female parent.”

“Something that gives rise to, or exercises protective care over something else.” (A bit utilitarian for me, though I can see how the authors meant for this to apply to both the human and animal kingdoms.)

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Escape with your family – NOW

When was the last time you spent quality time with your family away from home? Three months? Six months? More than a year? If it’s been more than six months, you and they are due for a getaway trip. We Americans are notorius for not taking vacations. (I count myself among the guilty, though I hope … Read more

Simple stretching exercises reduce stress throughout your day

Simple stretching exercises important for desk workers

Sitting at a desk all day can be rather uncomfortable. It’s also not good for the body. Light exercising, including stretching exercises, should be a part of your everyday routine.

how to stretch, how to feel better, how to be more successfulEven a short walk around the house or to the water cooler can make a big difference, says Dan Oberneder, a physical therapist with SPORT Clinic Physical Therapy in Bayside, Wis. Proper breathing is important as well, as deep breaths exercise the diaphragm and help you relax.

Oberneder says there are a number of simple stretching exercises you can do at home or at work, including:

General stretching – Oberneder suggests 30 to 45 seconds of light full-body stretching throughout the day. Avoid bouncing or jerky motions, as those cause muscles to tighten up. You can stretch standing up, or if possible, do back stretches while lying on the floor.

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