By Heather Compton

Senior Financial Abuse

It can happen to any of us. “Hi Grandpa” says a voice on the other end of the line. “Is that you Steve?” you reply uncertainly, not sure you recognize the voice. “Yes, Grandpa it’s Steve. I’m in trouble and I need your help but please, don’t tell my Mom or Dad.”

That’s how the scam starts. Next comes the tale of woe, a car broken down far from home or an unjust arrest for a minor offense and  he absolutely can’t go to the folks ‘cause they’ll flip their lid. Can Grandpa help? Of course he can…and he does. And with that action Gramps becomes just another victim of a confidence crime or “con”.

There are a number of ways we or our elderly parents can be parted from our money and there’s even a name for it – senior or elder financial abuse. It happens more frequently than you might believe and regretfully, it’s not always strangers committing the fraud.

Protecting Yourself From Scams by Trusted Family Members & Friends

How do I scam thee, let me count the ways. We’ve all heard stories of unscrupulous family members or care attendants encouraging vulnerable elders to sign Powers of Attorney or new wills or other documents. Using their trusted position, they could be secretly helping themselves to possessions or financial assets without permission. There are also situations where signatures are forged or undue influence and pressure is put on the victim and we’ve all heard of e-mail or telemarketing scams.

We must be on guard for those who overcharge or make incorrect change at the till and watch for credit card charges without authorization. There are those who play on the vulnerability of the recently bereaved, use deceptive business practises or abuse their positions of trust. No surprise some of us fall for sweetheart scams or “helpers” who encourage us to exchange the contents of our bank account for love, attention or the promise of lifelong care.

If we or our parents are socially isolated, lonely, live far from family, are infirm or suffering mental or physical disabilities, or are recovering from the loss of a loved one we are at increased risk.  Those risks will touch all of us at some point.

Protecting Yourself from Financial Abuse

Trusting no one is not a solution to financial abuse. The best defence is to stay engaged with our wider community – friends who will call “foul” when they feel we are making poor decisions, family doctors who are aware of our situation, a faith community that checks in on us, trusted neighbours who keep an eye out, a banker, accountant or lawyer who takes an interest and questions frequent withdrawals or unusual activity.  Our best protection is a loving and involved family where several family members have their finger on the pulse of our financial affairs.

Checking references and requiring a security check are sensible precautions when hiring helpers. Protecting ourselves may also mean simplifying our financial affairs – reducing the number of bank accounts or credit cards or investment accounts so suspicious activity is more easily detected and regularly reviewing the transactions on these accounts. It also requires us to get advice from trusted others if we are asked to sign documents we don’t understand and to speak up if we have suspicions – too often victims are too embarrassed.

Keep yourself informed and aware and speak up!

About the Authors: Heather Compton has presented seminars on financial and retirement lifestyle issues for over 30 years. She retired as Vice President and Senior Investment Advisor with a major financial services company. Heather and husband Dennis Blas co-present retirement seminars for a variety of corporate clients and are the co-authors of Retirement Rocks! Canadian Boomers Invest in Life. You can find their book online or in independent bookstores. See more of their advice at Retirement Rocks.

By LeeAnn Langdon

I think most Baby Boomers realize that strong core muscles support and stabilize the spine and provide a base of support for every move we make with our bodies. We know that core endurance can help eliminate many types of low back pain. And we know that a strong core is essential for maintaining balance as we age. But if you haven’t been a regular exerciser for a few years, you may find it hard to keep up in the abs of steel class at your local gym, or even beginning Pilates.

When I work with clients who are just getting back into it after a few years, I find that it helps to start slowly and carefully, and build up core strength and endurance over time. Here is the first stage of a very basic 2-stage program of core exercises for Baby Boomers that will help you develop the core strength and endurance you need to maintain great posture, a healthy spine, and stable movement patterns as you age.

Core Exercise Program Stage 1

Practice these three exercises as many times a day as you can for 2-3 weeks.

1. Pelvic floor contractions. You may know these better as Kegel exercises. All you do is contract the muscles that stop the flow of urine and hold the contraction as long as possible. At first you may only be able to hold the contraction for a few seconds, but keep practicing until you can hold the contraction for 30 seconds–and don’t forget to breathe!

2. Abdominal bracing. This is another small but important movement designed to train your abdominal muscles to stabilize the spine. It’s often described as pulling your navel back to your spine. You might also imagine lacing up a tight corset, pulling your hip bones in toward each other or bracing for a punch in the gut. Squeeze those muscles in, and hold for as long as you can. The goal again is to build up to a 30-second hold while still breathing normally.

3. Quadruped stabilization. Start on all fours with knees directly under hips and hands directly under shoulders. Keep your spine straight and engage your pelvic floor and abdominal muscles as in exercises 1 and 2. Then, keeping your torso straight and solid, raise one hand and the opposite knee off the ground only an inch or so.

Your goal is to use your abdominal muscles to keep your hips and shoulders square and your torso rock solid as you initiate the slight movement of the opposing limbs. Hold the position as long as you can, then switch sides. With only two points of support instead of four, your core has to do much of the work to keep your torso steady.

Spend a few weeks building up your endurance with these simple moves, and once you can maintain good abdominal stability for 30 seconds in each position, you’ll be ready to move on to Stage 2 of our core exercises (Coming Soon), where we begin to introduce more advanced stabilization techniques along with bigger movements

About the Author: LeeAnn Langdon became a certified personal trainer in her mid 40s and owns Prime of Life Fitness located in Colorado. LeeAnn’s specialty is working with mature adults—Baby Boomers and Seniors—to help them develop the fitness habits that will let them age gracefully, vibrantly and joyfully. For more fitness tips and routines visit the Prime of Life Fitness website.

(photo credit: LeeAnn Langdon, Prime of Life Fitness)

By Denise Lodge

Anita Crook, Pouchee® Founder.

Sergey Brin and Larry Page co-founded Google in their twenties. Thomas Edison was granted his first patent at age 22. Despite the history of younger entrepreneurs and inventors, entrepreneurship is not an endeavour strictly of young adults.

At age 58, Anita Crook was not expecting to found a business. In fact, she was looking forward to retirement; yet in 2004, she began a new career. Crook launched Pouchee®, the purse organizer that has reached global success, selling in over 2,000 stores worldwide. Now, eight years later, at age 65, Crook continues to expand her business and has no plans to retire.

Humble Beginnings

When asked if she had ever considered becoming an entrepreneur, Crook simply states, “No. Never.” By the time she founded Pouchee®, she had already raised a family. She had played an advisory role in some of her husband’s entrepreneurial endeavours, and though she found them excellent learning experiences, she never considered herself a businesswoman.

In Christmas 2004, her son gave her a trendy purse that she loved, but knew she would never use.  There were no pockets; there was no organization at all. The solution? “So unlike me,” Crook says, “I designed an organizer.” Crook did not sew, so she spoke with her friend’s daughter, who did. This acquaintance led to a friend who had purses made overseas, and eventually to the creation of the first Pouchees®.

Pouchee®: The Ultimate Purse Organizer

Pouchee® Purse Organizer Insert.

Pouchee® is designed for busy, fashion-conscious women, and makes it possible to change purses quickly to match multiple outfits. Fitting neatly inside handbags, gym bags, beach and other bags, Pouchee® also organizes their contents, making them easily accessible.

In Crook’s words, “necessity is the mother of invention.” Pouchee® was born not only out of her desire to “stay organized and change purses,” but also out of her “impatience.” She does not like to “fumble around, hunting for her keys and pens,” so she “always searched for organized purses.” The problem with these purses was that once their contents were organized, it was too much trouble to change bags.

Crook launched Pouchee® with little overhead and absolutely no debt, and when asked to what she attributes her success, Crook gives credit “to God.” Her life as an entrepreneur was not anything she “planned or knew how to do.” She does not consider Pouchee® her “achievement”; “It was a surprise.” She says that it has “all worked out the way it has.”

Facing Fears

One of the greatest struggles Crook faced when she began Pouchee® was nerves. Many decisions needed to be made, such as choosing colours and fabric. She was afraid to “get it wrong.” Added to such decisions was the possibility of regretting the financial investment; she wondered, “What do I do if nobody likes them, and I’m stuck with 2,000 Pouchees®?”

Crook also faced the fear of selling the product; she says that the “fear of rejection” was a reality she “had to overcome.” With “prayer and trembling,” she approached stores with her product. The first store loved the Pouchees®, and for the next three to four months, a steady stream of stores purchased them. For her first season in business, Crook encountered 100 per cent success. Some stores called back within days to re-order. The fact that people liked and used her product gave Crook the courage to keep going.

Growth

Entrepreneur Anita.

Pouchee® has expanded from selling in 60 stores to more than 2,000 worldwide.  Crook says that it is exciting to see the growth; she says that she is not a sales person, but she listens to her customers. When it comes to details such as “colour, material, size, comfort, and design,” Crook listens to what people want, and is willing to adapt her product.

Crook knew herself and her goals from the outset. She knew Pouchee® was a product to be sold in boutiques, and she maintained that vision.

Anita’s Advice

Crook shares encouraging advice for those who would consider beginning a business. There are a lot of decisions to make, from getting your product on the market to pricing. She recommends some helpful tips:

• Consider the cost. Can you make enough money to re-invest the profits into your business?
• Think as a consumer. Will people be willing to pay what you ask? Knowing your market will help you to make wise decisions.
• Know your product. Where can you see your product sell? In which stores, specifically?

She encourages anyone who has a dream to “go for it.” She states that failure is merely a learning experience. She also advises that what seems to be the worst is rarely as bad as it is “in the mind.” “By overcoming fear,” she says, “you never know what will happen.”

Current Challenges

We asked Crook what challenges she faces today, operating her expanding enterprise. For Crook, her primary challenge is the “enormity of the decisions” she makes. Aware that her decisions affect not only her, but also her employees and her customers, Crook seeks to make decisions carefully, thoughtfully, and wisely. The amount of inventory to buy, investing profits back into Pouchee®, and considering employees comprise “a delicate balancing act.”

Aging in Entrepreneurship

As an entrepreneur, “there are both advantages and disadvantages to being older,” Crook expresses. While she does not “have the energy” in her sixties that she “had in [her] thirties,” she has more “experience and wisdom” now than she did then. She makes different decisions now than she would have made at 30.

Some of those decisions include renting her office building instead of owning it. She began Pouchee® debt-free, and would like it to remain that way, with the “freedom to make decisions without worrying about paying someone back.” She says that learning from her mistakes has been the best way to grow in wisdom.

Crook sees a change in society’s attitude towards aging. When Crook started her business, “nobody said [she] was too old.” Now the grandmother of four, Crook remembers a time when grandmothers “sat around, rocking, and waiting for the kids to call.” “Now,” Crook says, “grandmothers wear chic clothes, go to the gym, operate businesses, and eat well.” A positive attitude towards mature adults “starts with us, and society will come along.”

Bright Future

Anita with Pouchees®.

Crook’s goal is to build her business so that “all women everywhere know about Pouchee®.”  She wants to “add products, increase its presence, and continue to build on what has been started, adding new styles and materials.” In her personal life, she wants to “grow in grace, love God and others more, and live long enough to see her grandchildren grow up.”

As for retirement, “when you don’t start working until you’re almost 60, you keep going as long as you’re healthy and able.” Crook says she will continue at Pouchee® until “God says “stop.”” The concept of retirement has changed so much that Crook is unsure what it means; Crook lived an active life before she founded Pouchee®, and she is sure that she would continue post-Pouchee®. Crook says that “her” plans are not truly hers; “What tomorrow brings,” she says, “who knows?”

When she was nearly 60, Crook “stepped out into the unknown.” She is proud of “facing [her] fears,” and “happy that [she] did it without worrying about the future.” Thankful that she is able to live the life she does, she does not “take it for granted,” but takes “each day as a gift.”

For more information about Anita and Pouchee®, visit www.pouchee.com.

By Jeanie Keogh

Finally, filmmakers are beginning to understand the maxim that life begins at 50.

The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, starring several acting legends, and directed by British director John Madden should be on your must-see list for 2012. Madden, who is best known for his directorial role in Shakespeare in Love (1998) and Proof (2005), has the mark of an artful and considerate director. He tells a story with multiple protagonists without creating boredom or confusion or preference for one character over another.

The story is comically simple. Seven retired British folks sign up for what promises to be the experience of a lifetime: an extended (or rather indefinite) stay at an Indian hotel that caters to the elderly. What awaits them when they arrive is a decrepit building and an overly-enthusiastic young Indian man that has his sights set on restoring the hotel his father left him as his legacy.

The characters are beautifully flawed. Graham (Tom Wilkinson) leaves his 32-year career as a lawyer to return to India to find his lost lover from 40 years ago. Madge (Celia Imrie) fancifully gives up her tenure as her grandchildren’s babysitter to find a wealthy fifth husband. Douglas (Bill Nighy) and Jean (Penelope Wilton), retired civil servants whose daughter’s internet start-up has left them with too few savings to afford more than a cramped English flat, choose India as a preferred option. Muriel (Maggie Smith), a fierce racist and medical tourist, equips herself with pickles, HP sauce and English biscuits and braves herself for the stink of curry.

The movie is based on the book, "These Foolish Things"

Evelyn (Judi Dench), a recently-widowed housewife who has never done anything without her husband, finds herself at a loss after the sale of her house to absolve her husband’s debts. Norman (Ronald Pickup), a lonely kid-at-heart who is afraid he has lost his way with women along with the realization that he will never again be young. And Sonny (Dev Patel), the hotel proprietor who is desperately trying to convince his mother, his girlfriend and his hotel guests that his grandiose dream to create a wonderful haven for retired Westerners is not a foolish waste of time and money.

What we witness is uplifting and against the grain: older people who are exemplary at self-discovery and reinvention. As the characters learn to deal with the assault of India’s in-your-face humanity, they also learn the lessons India has to teach them: humility, confidence in love, recompense…and how to eat chapati without spitting it out or dishonouring someone’s family. The adjustment is at times humorous, at others, deeply moving. The characters pick themselves up, dust themselves off (quite literally) and begin to truly live by untying rather than tying up the loose ends of their lives.

The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel: Movie Trailer

Madden isn’t the only one who deserves artist credit. A stellar cast of Judi Dench, Maggie Smith, Bill Nighy, Tom Wilkinson and Dev Patel (Slumdog Millionaire) show their mastery and deliver concise, fresh performances. Dench, who acts as narrator by way of her blog posts about her adventure, unpacks their fears of ageing, their thoughts on whether seniors are incapable of change or just too tired to see their efforts end in disappointment, and their doubts about whether what they gave their lives to was worth it.

But as Sonny, the ever-positive dreamer says: “Everything will work out in the end…and if things aren’t working out, that’s because it’s not the end yet.”

Be sure to watch The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel in theaters starting Friday, May 4th. Let’s help the movie become a huge commercial success and encourage film makers to develop more stories starring older adults that we can relate to.

Below you can find a list of our current contests and the winners of our past contests. Check back for more contests or sign up for our monthly newsletter or Facebook fan page to keep up-to-date with the latest chances to win.

Current Contests

Raw Food Book Giveaway

Learn more about raw food and it’s health benefits by reading our raw food diet review. You can enter to win The Complete Book of Raw Food by leaving a comment under the article or on our Facebook page. The Complete Book of Raw Food edited by Julie Rodwell includes over 400 raw food recipes, and advice about choosing ingredients and purchasing tools.

 Contest Ends: May 31st, 2012

Past contests

Online Easter “Egg” Hunt

In this online version of the classic Easter Egg Hunt you’ll be hunting for information. Answer the 15 questions using information from the Impowerage website and our Facebook page. Everyone who correctly completes the questionnaire will be entered to win their choice of a Kindle or Kobo.

Contest Ended: April 27, 2012

Winner: Paulette T. 

Enjoy Every Sandwich Book Giveaway

Win a copy of “Enjoy Every Sandwich” by Dr. Lee Lipsenthal by leaving a comment under the article or on the Impowerage Facebook Page. Author, Dr. Lipsenthal was diagnosed with cancer but discovered that he did not fear death and instead continued to enjoy everyday life and savor even the little things like every sandwich. Before his death in Sept 2011, he wrote a book called “Enjoy Every Sandwich” where he shares how to “find meaning, purpose, and peace in our lives.”

Contest Ended: April 27, 2012

Winner: Jo Ann B

Readership Survey Draw

Fill out our 2012 Readership Survey and enter to win a Kindle.

Contest Closed: March 31, 2012
Winner: Deena

The 17 Day Diet Book Giveaway

Win a copy of the 17 Day Diet book by Dr. Mike Moreno by leaving a comment on the bottom of the article at the bottom of the article, The 17 Day Diet Review.

Contest Closed: March 10, 2012
Winner: Katie 

Canadian Living: The Vegetarian Collection Cookbook Giveaway

Win a copy of Canadian Living: The Vegetarian Collection by leaving a comment on the bottom of the article, A Complete Guide to a Vegetarian Diet. Discover healthy new recipes to try.

Contest Closed: January 11, 2012
Winner: Ben

50+ Scholarship: Lifelong Learning Contest

At Impowerage Magazine, we believe there is always something new to learn, so we are offering a 50+ scholarship to help you pursue your next career move, hobby or creative passion. The selected winners will get $200-$400 to help them continue their lifelong learning.

Win $200-$400 towards the course of your choice. Fill out a short application form or pick your favorite learning quote on the Impowerage website for a chance to win.

Contest Submission Deadline: December 19, 2011
Winners: Bonnie McDonald & Judith Rachmani

The Grace to Race Book Giveaway.

Win a copy of the Iron Nun’s autobiography on how she took up running in her 50s and then set the world record for the oldest women to finish an Ironman Triathlon at age 79.
Contest Closed: December 18, 2011
Winner: Cindy W

Kilimanjaro and Beyond: A Life-Changing Journey Book Giveaway

The book details 60-year-old Barry Finlay’s journey to Africa’s highest mountain. Along the way he raised over $30,000 for a new well and school classroom for Tanzanian children. The book details Barry’s physical training, doubts, challenges,fund raising, successes, failures, climb and the immense satisfaction of the journey. Kilimanjaro and Beyond serves as an inspiration to people of all ages to push their limits beyond what they think is possible.

Contest Closed: December 15th, 2011
Winner: Joyce B

The Paleo Diet Book Giveaway

Written by Loren Cordain, the book includes a history of paleolithic eating, disease-prevention information, and recipes.
Contest closed: November 30th, 2011
Winner: Elizabeth D. 

Hike for Your Life (in the Alps) Book Giveaway

Winners: David C, Barb W, Tara B.
Closed: October 24th, 2011

“It’s Never Too Late to Change Careers” Writing Contest

Grand $500 Prize Winner:

• Inspired: A Second Chance to Dance By E.C. Premo

Top Finalists: ($100 prize)

• I Think You’re Looking For Me By Cathryn Wellner
• The Never Ending Adventure By Peter Morris
• The Recession Awakens an Artistic Entrepreneur By Christine Henry
• 50-year-old Vows to Make the Most Out of His 1200 Months By Margaret Hennessey

“It’s Never Too Late” Writing Contest

Grand $500 Prize Winner:

• Transform Your Life and Run Your First Marathon by Mary McManus

Top Finalists ($100 prize)

It’s Never too Late to…

1. Get Your Health Back by Cynthia Tremenheere
2. Discover a New Career and Hobby by Lura Devlin
3. Create an Organization and Magazine by Daphne Solecki
4. Learn to Love Public Speaking by Madeleine Kolb
5. Travel the World by Irene Butler

“Reading Between the Vines” Book Giveaway

Winner: Barb

Trekking the Globe with Mostly Gentle Footsteps Book Giveaway

Winner: Katherine W.

Read our review of a Raw Food Diet for more information on why you might want to include these raw foods in your diet.

Almond Milk Recipe

Making Almond Milk: Photo by Williumbillium

Almond milk is a vegan alternative to dairy and is simple to make. It can be used in place of dairy in smoothies and most baking and cooking.

To make your own almond milk, soak two cups of almonds in water for four to six hours. Rinse and, if desired, peel the almonds. Blend them with four cups of water until smooth. Pour the almond mixture into a Nut Milk Bag and squeeze out the liquid almond milk into a bowl. You can use the leftover ground up almonds in cookies or as a spread on sandwiches.

Flavored Almond Milk Variations
You can make a vanilla flavored almond milk by adding a handful of dates and a teaspoon of vanilla. For a chocolate flavor add two tablespoons of cocoa powder. Adding some cinnamon and nutmeg makes a delicious cinnamon flavored milk. The possibilities are endless and you can adjust the recipes to your taste.

Instructions for Growing Sprouts

Growing Alfalfa Sprouts. Photo by Jessica Reeder

Sprouts are sources of vitamins, minerals, enzymes, amino acids, and proteins. Sprouts come pre-packaged at your grocery store, but they are also easy to grow in your home. Alfalfa, broccoli, lentil, and radish seeds can all be sprouted.

• To grow your own sprouts, rinse three tablespoons of seeds and place them in a jar.
• Add three cups of water to the jar, and leave the seeds in the water overnight.
• Drain the water from the jar, retaining the wet seeds in the jar.
• With a cheesecloth over the opening of the jar so that no seeds escape, place the jar upside down in a drying rack.
• Rinse the seeds once or twice daily, and continue to leave the jar upside down, with the seeds inside.

The number of sprouting time depends on the seed; for example, optimal sprouting time for alfalfa seeds is five days, whereas lentils sprout in only two to three days.

To remove the seed casings known as hulls from your sprouts, place the sprouts in a bowl, pour water over them, and the hulls will float to the surface.

Sprouts can be enjoyed in salads, pitas, stirfrys and more.

Raw Zucchini "Pasta". Photo by Kari Sullivan.

The concept of raw food is not complicated, but preparing nutritionally balanced and complete raw meals requires dedication and education. In a raw food diet, whole, fresh, usually organic ingredients are prepared using any method that does not heat them above 47°C (118°F).

While not all raw food diets are vegan, allowing unpasteurised dairy and eggs, most raw foodists promote an organic vegan raw food diet, which is the focus of this month’s diet overview.

Benefits of a Raw Diet

Photo by Cstrom.

Lori Baird and Julie Rodwell, Editor and Contributing Editor of The Complete Book of Raw Food state that eating an organic raw food diet allows the body to release toxins. This toxin-release is a primary reason that the raw food diet has gained popularity as a seasonal detox and as a disease fighter.

The belief behind the raw food diet is that cooking food at a temperature any higher than 118°F denatures the food, diminishing the high concentrations of enzymes present in raw food.  Enzymes, chemicals produced in living cells, facilitate digestion and keep arteries clean.

Scientific Studies on Raw Diets

Photo by Quinn Dombrowski.

In 2005, a study published in the Journal of Nutrition examined the effects of the raw food diet on cholesterol, homocysteine, and vitamin B12 levels. While raw food dieters had favourable levels of LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, 38 per cent of participants had low HDL cholesterol levels, vitamin B12 deficiency, and increased homocysteine levels.

One study published by the American Heart Association examined 179 adults aged 60 years and older, and found that elevated levels of homocysteine may be related to high blood pressure. Another study published by the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society tested 574 adults aged 80 years on average, and concluded that higher homocysteine levels are associated with greater risk of mobility decline.

In 2005, the Toronto Star published a review of the raw food diet, consulting Toronto-based dietitian Rosie Schwartz; she stated that while she “would recommend components of the diet, such as eating more fruits and vegetables,” a strict raw food diet omits “important nutrients.” Moreover, there are proven advantages to cooking in some cases; cooking tomatoes, for example, increases the absorption of lycopene, a carotenoid responsible for the red colour in tomatoes, which protects the body against heart disease and cancer.

Eating a Variety of Raw Foods

Photo by Kari Sullivan.

Large bowls of salad lacking both dressing and flavour may be the image that comes to mind when thinking of the raw food diet. While greens do play a role in the raw food diet, there are many other vibrant, flavourful options. Principle foods include fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and sprouts. Secondary ingredients include oils, spices, and other condiments.

The raw food diet entails high-quality, seasonal, preferably organic ingredients; these ingredients are more expensive than canned, frozen, and highly processed foods. However, the raw food diet does not require boundless financial investment. In fact, time spent grocery shopping takes place primarily in the fresh produce and dry goods areas, while meat, dairy, pastry, and prepared food ­departments are usually excluded.

In a raw food diet, nut milks replace dairy and other pasteurized milks. They may be unfamiliar, but they are easy to prepare, and they are full of protein. Find out how to easily make almond milk at home.

Photo by John Hritz.

Sprouts are sources of vitamins, minerals, enzymes, amino acids, and proteins. Sprouts come pre-packaged at your grocery store, but they are also easy to grow in your home. Alfalfa, broccoli, lentil, and radish seeds can all be sprouted. Read our instructions for sprouting seeds.

Important Tools for a Raw Food Diet

One advantage of a raw food diet is the energy saved by omitting the oven and skipping the stove. However, the money saved will be put towards other tools. As with other diets, kitchen gadgets can range from minimal basics to extensive catalogue orders and custom kits.

A dehydrator will be helpful when preparing raw meals. Dehydrators can take days to make breads, crackers, and chips, but their purpose is to preserve nutrients.  Other helpful tools include blender, sharp knives, cutting boards, mandolines, spice grinders, and food processors. These tools aide in preparation, and can help to inspire creativity; for example, with blenders, countless combinations of smoothies, soups, mousses, and sauces can be created. Another purpose of these tools is to ensure the rawness of ingredients.

Photo by Cstrom.

Beginning a Raw Food Diet

The raw food diet need not be extreme, expensive, or inconvenient. Some raw foodists do not eat raw food 100 per cent of the time. The raw food diet has the potential to become a lifestyle; however, aspects of the diet may be adopted for a season or incorporated into another diet. The benefits of increased fruit and vegetable intake are time-tested, but ultimately, the medical community is mixed about the benefits of a 100% raw food diet.

Win a Copy of the Complete Book of Raw Food

The Complete Book of Raw Food edited by Julie Rodwell includes over 400 raw food recipes, and advice about choosing ingredients and purchasing tools. If the raw food diet intrigues you, and you would like to learn more, enter to win a free copy by leaving a comment below, or on Impowerage’s Facebook page by 11:59 PST on May 31st, 2012.

By Marilynne Rudick

Have you seen the PayPal logo when you made an online purchase? Maybe you’ve skipped over it because you’re not sure what it is, or whether it’s safe. PayPal is an electronic payment service that lets anyone with an email address securely send and receive online payments.

If you’re worried about whether it’s safe to purchase a product or service from someone you don’t know, PayPal provides a layer of security. Only PayPal-not the merchant–has access to your credit card or personal information, so you lessen the risk of credit card fraud or identity theft.

If you’re a seller, you don’t have to worry about whether the buyer is using a stolen card or whether a check from a buyer will bounce.

How PayPal Works for Buyers

It takes just a few minutes to set up a PayPal account. You can choose to link PayPal to a card-credit or debit-or a bank account. If you link to your card, every time you pay with PayPal the purchase is charged to your card. If you link to your bank account, the purchase triggers an electronic payment. Once you’ve set up a PayPal account, you can pay for your online purchases on eBay, Etsy or just about any online merchant with a few clicks. That’s because you don’t have to enter billing and shipping information every time you make a purchase. For buyers, there is no charge for a PayPal transaction.

How PayPal Works for Sellers

After setting up a merchant account, you can accept payments from buyers without having to set up a shopping cart. If you already have a shopping cart, you can add PayPal as a payment option.

When a buyer makes a purchase, the funds are transferred to your PayPal account, and you will receive an email notifying you of the transaction. You can then transfer the funds to your bank account electronically or request payment by check. As a seller, you pay a fee for using PayPal, typically a small monthly fee and a fee per transaction.

How Else Can You Use PayPal?

PayPal is not limited to online transactions. You can receive or send money to anyone who has an email address. PayPal is an easy way to send money to college students, grandchildren or other family members. If you’re running a business, you can offer PayPal as a bill paying option. You can make Paypal transactions in over 25 currencies.

Resolving Disputes

What happens if you purchase a product using PayPal and the order doesn’t arrive or the item is not as advertised? PayPal has a resolution process for handling disputes. But it’s slow and cumbersome. First, you must try to resolve the issue with the merchant.

I’ve used PayPal for many transactions, and I’ve only had one problem with a merchant sending a defective item. Because I linked my PayPal account to a credit card, I contacted the credit card company and disputed the payment. The credit card company then contacted PayPal to resolve the issue. Linking your account to a credit card or debit card adds another level of security.

About the Author: Marilynne Rudick writes about web tools and technologies in her WebOver50 blog.  She believes the web is wasted on the young, and her blog explains web apps– social networking, blogging, YouTube, and the treasure trove of new web tools—for people like herself: an over50 history major.

By Denise Lodge

Team Canada at the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver. Photo by Scott Hadfield.

Many people associate curling with Canada and it is in fact the official sport of Saskatchewan. Curling has its origins in sixteenth-century Scotland, but today, it is enjoyed globally, and has been a medal sport at the Winter Olympics since 1998 and at the Winter Paralympics since 2006. If you have never played the game, perhaps you have wondered how hitting a stone around the ice could be fun. The game is easy to learn, fun to play, and improves fitness.

The Basics of Curling

Competitors take turns shooting and gently curving circular stones (“rocks”) down a narrow strip of ice towards a target (“button”). Teams are comprised of four members, which include a rock-thrower and a captain. The captain (“skip”) gives orders to a pair of sweepers, who clear the ice surface ahead of the stone using a broom.  Friction from the broom momentarily heats the ice, causing the curling rock to slide straighter, faster, and farther. The players rotate positions through the game. The team that places the most rocks near the target wins.

While muscular endurance, strength, and cardiovascular conditioning can improve a player’s game, they are not the only traits required to become an admirable competitor. Curling involves hand-eye coordination, good balance, and strategic thinking. As more stones are put into play, the team must decide whether an offensive or defensive throw will be best. One offensive strategy is to spread out stones, aiming to score more than one point; however, the risk of this strategy is that it may provide a clear path to the button for the opposing team. Because of this risk-reward consideration, curling is often referred to as “chess on the ice.”

The 2010 Winter Paralympic Games. Photo by Christine.

The game is growing in popularity: the Canadian Curling Association sanctions and conducts eight national curling championship events annually, which are entered by 15,000 competitive curlers from all provinces and territories.

Curling Equipment

In comparison with other sports, the difference in cost between top-of-the-line equipment and less expensive equipment is slight.

Clothing: Wear warm, comfortable clothing that supports ease of movement. Gloves provide warmth and protection during sweeping.

Slip-on Grippers. Photo by Lee LeFever.

Footwear: Shoes play an important role in curling. An athletic shoe with good grip, such as that with a pebbled rubber, should be worn on one foot; on the other, wear a sliding shoe, which has a slick, low-friction material that covers the entire sole and heel. The sliding shoe is worn by the thrower, when he or she throws behind the “hack,” rubber-lined foot holes that give the thrower something to push against when throwing. The slider shoe is also worn by the captain or the sweepers, as they glide down the ice quickly. Slip-on grippers can be used to cover the slider shoe’s slippery surface when the wearer is off the ice.

Brushes: Prior to the 1980s, the common sweeping device used in Canada was the corn broom, or a synthetic broom similar to the original corn. During the 1980s, the brush gained popularity, and is now used almost exclusively.

Photo by Benson Kua.

Curling Stones: Stones are made most commonly of granite from the British Isles, because it is non-absorbent; moisture penetrating a stone may freeze and then cause the stone to chip. An acceptable curling stone must be able to resist abrasion, and be tough, resilient, and uniform in colour.

Preventing Curling Injuries

The weight of the stones can cause back, knee, or shoulder pain, and sweeping can also put pressure on the spine. However, there are ways to avoid injury. Focus on warming up, stretching and strengthening your back to remain injury-free. See the Impowerage Fitness Guide for more information on stretching and strength training exercises.

Photo by Andjam79.

Getting Started Curling

If you are interested in trying curling, or want to start curling regularly, see the Canadian Curling Association’s club listing. Membership fees vary, but generally adults can play for between $250-$400 per season. The game promotes fitness, strategic thinking, and is an excellent way to spend time with friends, meet new people, and have fun.

By Kim Leatherdale

Most adults recognize the importance of good health, but fail to recognize good health also includes taking care of themselves mentally and emotionally as well as physically. 

Your mental and emotional health effects you as much if not more than your physical condition. Without a positive mental outlook you may neglect to take of your physical self which in turn can affect your mental health. Our physical and mental health are closely linked and it’s important we do as much as we can to improve our overall health.

9 Strategies to Boost Your Overall Well-being and Nurture Your Mental Health.

1. Include positive self talk in your daily mental chatter.  Take a few moments to pay attention to the messages you are saying to yourself.  Begin to tune in to the positives and to weed out the negatives.  Instead of “I can’t” say “I’ll do my best.”
2. Determine realistic goals.  Make sure your goals meet SMART requirements: they are Simple, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and have a Timetable.  Write your goals down and share them with someone.  As you complete each step toward your goals, you gain a sense of accomplishment.
3. Practice relaxation.  Explore a variety of techniques until you find one that works for you.  Some examples are deep breathing, yoga, meditation, guided imagery or journaling.
4. Don’t overdo.  Schedule time for yourself and learn how to say “No” to commitments you find unimportant.  Remember, when you say “No” to things you don’t want to do, you make time to devote to the things you really care about.  Keep your scheduled time yours.
5. Create and cultivate a support system.  Plan time with people you care about and who care about you.  Make sure the people you spend time with support your positive outlook.  You can also become involved in your community to gain a sense of belonging.
6. Discover your sense of spirituality.  A sense of spirituality means you feel connected to things larger than yourself.  Attending religious services, practicing meditation, or praying can improve your overall outlook on life.
7. Practice intentional optimism.  Appreciate the good things in your life and expect things to go right.  Look for positives everywhere.
8. Take care of yourself physically.  Proper nutrition, good sleep, and regular exercise all keep you mentally vigorous.  Avoid excesses in food or alcohol; both interfere with physical and mental wellness.
9. Appreciate your feelings.  Your emotions are just another way of knowing the world and yourself.  They are not to be feared, but learned from even when they are uncomfortable.

Your mental health needs as much attention as your physical health.  Use the above suggestions as a way to exercise good mental health.  If you are struggling with any of the above suggestions or your mental health, seek help from a licensed mental health professional.

About the Author: Kim Leatherdale is a licensed professional counselor and relationship blogger. She offers on-line, phone, and in office counseling and relationship coaching. For more information visit her website: CreatingRewardingRelationships, Facebook page: CreatingRewardingRelationships, or Twitter account: HappyCoupleXprt “