The busy modern world makes it seem like you shouldn’t have a chance to get bored. However, there’s no shame in allowing yourself some downtime. Letting your mind roam enables more effective problem solving, creative thinking and productivity. It is imperative to carve out time for personal reflection. Tips for downtime:

Take 20 to 30 minutes per day without your cell phone.
Encourage your child to take some quiet time if it is unavailable at school.
Turn off devices during mealtime.
Make sure your quiet time is not goal-oriented.
Eliminate the guilt you experience when you take quiet time.

Listen as Dr. Alan Lightman joins Melanie Cole, MS, to discuss why we all need to learn to waste time.

Encore Episode: The Value of Wasting Time

Health & Fitness

Millions of people in their 50s and 60s find themselves facing job and financial insecurity. Financial wellness can be defined as the amount that makes you feel grounded and content. You have to find a textured and meaningful life on a modest income. As you age, you may not be considered for jobs that pay as much as the last job you left. Consider taking a freelance position or two in order to generate income. Short consultancies, subletting rooms in your home and driving for a ride share service are options. Things beyond your control may have landed you in your current financial state. You can learn from past mistakes, but the economic state of the country doesn’t boost your savings. Listen as Elizabeth White joins Melanie Cole, MS, to share how to find your financial footing over 50.

Encore Episode: Finding Your Financial Footing Over 50

When you reach a certain age, finding the right low-impact fitness can be a challenge. Yoga is a great option for middle-aged individuals to strengthen muscles and maintain mobility. Mid-life is roughly defined as ages 45 to 65. It’s a peak time for career-minded individuals, and the hustle and bustle of running a household is also a challenge. Yoga encourages stress reduction and mindfulness. Listen as Dennis and Kathy Lang join Melanie Cole, MS, to discuss how yoga can benefit you in mid-life.

Encore Episode: Benefits of Midlife Yoga

Men 50 and over have a lot of opportunity ahead of them. The trick is to be healthy to enjoy them. Older men often become more sedentary and neglect their health. Oftentimes, partners have to motivate them to get necessary screenings and make lifestyle changes to live longer.Tips for Men in Middle Years

Get to know what’s most important in your life. Work to enhance those relationships.
Eat sensibly.
Cut out vices like smoking and alcohol.
Get a good night’s sleep.
Learn to adapt as you age and your body’s skills decline in certain areas.

 For partners, it’s ideal to be supportive and encourage longevity. However, you sometimes have to take control so the life-preserving actions can happen. Listen as Louis Bezich joins Melanie Cole, MS to discuss how to find fulfillment as you grow older.

Fulfillment in Men Over 50

Menopause ends the female reproduction window. Perimenopause is like adult puberty, the transition from regular menstrual cycles to one year without periods. Perimenopause is tough to define. Symptoms can occur for three to five years or longer. Menopause occurs when the ovaries have fully retired. Heavy or light periods, irregular bleeding, vaginal dryness, hot flashes and night sweats may pop up as the ovaries wind down their work. Until the ovaries shut down completely, it’s going to be a bumpy ride. Progesterone may be prescribed by your provider to even things out. Some over the counter products like black cohosh may provide some relief from symptoms. Listen as Dr. Mary Jane Minkin joins Melanie Cole, MS, to discuss what to expect from perimenopause.

Encore Episode: Perimenopause: Adult Puberty

Different cultures contribute to our culinary melting pot. The flavors of American foods alter with these new contributions, influencing generations to come. What was once known as “foreign” food eventually becomes adopted and Americanized. It’s inevitable that food changes as it mixes with American cultures. Lack of unique ingredients and brushing up against other cultures gives food a new identity. Americans are spoiled, as we can enjoy a panoply of flavors every day. The strength of our country is in our differences and should be celebrated. Be adventurous and try something new. Listen as Chef Edward Lee joins Melanie Cole, MS, to share how Americanized foods are worthy of celebration.

Encore Episode: The Value of Wasting Time

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