August Newsletter Edition of 60 & Lovin It!

 🌺 The 60 & Lovin It Newsletter 🌺 

Your Guide to Embracing Health, Connection, and Adventure After 60

Issue: August 2023 

Dear Fabulous Women 60 and Over,

Welcome to the July edition of The 60 & Lovin It Newsletter! 

It's a pleasure to share with you the latest insights, tips, and inspiration to help you live your best life during this vibrant phase. This month, we dive into essential topics of Health and Wellness, Relationships and Social Connections, and Travel and Adventure. Let's explore together!

🌿 Health and Wellness 🌿

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• Nourishing Summer Recipes: As the warm weather invites us to enjoy fresh produce, we're featuring a delicious and nutritious recipe that is easy to prepare. This month's recipe is a Summer Glow Salad

🍅 Summer Glow Salad 🥗

Enjoy the vibrant flavors of summer with this refreshing and nutritious Summer Glow Salad. Packed with colorful vegetables, juicy fruits, and protein-rich ingredients, this delightful dish will nourish your body and delight your taste buds.

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

• 2 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or your favorite greens)

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 cup cucumber, diced

• 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced

• 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced

• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)

• 1/4 cup toasted walnuts or almonds

• 1/4 cup dried cranberries or cherries

For the Grilled Chicken (optional):

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

• If adding grilled chicken, start by marinating the chicken breasts. In a bowl, mix olive oil, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade and let them sit for at least 30 minutes.

• Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes per side or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Remove from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing.

• In the meantime, prepare the salad. In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, strawberries, red onion, feta cheese (if using), toasted walnuts or almonds, and dried cranberries.

• In a separate small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, extra-virgin olive oil, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to make the balsamic vinaigrette dressing.

• Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring all the ingredients are coated with the delicious dressing.

• If you've grilled chicken, slice it into strips and add it to the salad. Otherwise, you can enjoy the salad as a light and flavorful vegetarian option.

• Serve immediately and relish the explosion of flavors and textures in this Summer Glow Salad.

This salad is not only visually appealing but also incredibly nourishing, offering a variety of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It's the perfect choice for a quick and healthy meal, ideal for lunch or a light dinner on warm summer days.

Enjoy the goodness of fresh ingredients and celebrate the season with this Summer Glow Salad! Bon appétit! 🌞🍽️

💖 Relationships and Social Connections 💖

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• The Art of Active Listening: Communication is vital in any relationship. Learn about active listening techniques to foster understanding, empathy, and more profound connections with your loved ones.

Communication forms the foundation of human interaction, allowing us to convey ideas, share emotions, and build connections with one another. While speaking plays a significant role in communication, the often-underestimated skill of active listening holds the key to fostering deeper connections and understanding between individuals. This is an art that requires attention, focus, and empathy, enabling us to truly comprehend the thoughts and feelings of others.

Active listening goes beyond merely hearing the words spoken by someone; it involves being fully present in the moment and devoting our attention to the speaker. In our fast-paced and distraction-filled world, mastering the art of active listening can be transformative in personal and professional relationships. Here's how you can cultivate this invaluable skill:

• Give Undivided Attention: When engaging in a conversation, eliminate distractions and give your full attention to the speaker. Maintain eye contact, put away electronic devices, and show genuine interest in what the person is saying. This act alone makes the speaker feel valued and respected.

• Practice Empathy: Empathy is the ability to put yourself in someone else's shoes and understand their perspective and emotions. As an active listener, aim to see the world through the speaker's eyes. Validate their feelings and experiences, even if you don't necessarily agree with them. A non-judgmental approach fosters trust and openness.

• Use Verbal and Non-Verbal Cues: Offer verbal encouragement like "I see," "I understand," or "Tell me more." Nodding or providing affirming gestures lets the speaker know that you are engaged and following their words. These cues show your willingness to listen and comprehend their message.

• Practice Reflective Listening: Reflect back on what the speaker has said to ensure mutual understanding. You can paraphrase their words or summarize their main points. Reflective listening allows for clarifications and demonstrates that you are actively processing the information.

• Ask Open-Ended Questions: Encourage the speaker to delve deeper into their thoughts and emotions by asking open-ended questions. Avoid interrupting or steering the conversation in a specific direction. Instead, allow them to express themselves fully.

• Be Patient and Non-Interruptive: Resist the urge to interrupt or finish the speaker's sentences. Allow them to share their thoughts at their own pace, even if there are brief moments of silence. Patience shows that you respect their words and feelings.

• Stay Mindful of Your Body Language: Your body language can speak louder than words. Maintain an open and approachable posture, avoid crossing your arms, and nod or smile to show your engagement and receptiveness.

The benefits of active listening are profound. Beyond nurturing deeper connections with others, it enhances problem-solving skills, reduces misunderstandings, and promotes a positive and supportive environment. In professional settings, active listening is particularly valuable, as it leads to better collaboration, increased productivity, and improved leadership abilities.

Remember, the art of active listening is a lifelong journey of refinement. It requires practice, patience, and a willingness to continuously improve. By honing this skill, you not only enrich your relationships but also contribute to a more compassionate and understanding world. So, let us all embark on this journey together, one conversation at a time, and create a tapestry of empathy and connection through the art of active listening.

✈️ Travel and Adventure ✈️

• Exploring Hidden Gems in Florida: Discover lesser-known destinations and hidden gems that offer adventure and cultural enrichment. From charming small towns to breathtaking natural wonders, your next unforgettable journey awaits.

When one thinks of Florida, iconic images of palm-fringed beaches, bustling theme parks, and vibrant nightlife often come to mind. While these popular attractions draw millions of visitors each year, Florida has a treasure trove of hidden gems that offer unique experiences far from the typical tourist path. Venture beyond the well-trodden areas and explore the lesser-known wonders that Florida has to offer. Let's dive into some of Florida's best-kept secrets, waiting to be discovered by intrepid travelers.

• Crystal River - Manatee Haven: Nestled along Florida's Nature Coast, Crystal River is a haven for gentle giants - the manatees. Known as the "Manatee Capital of the World," Crystal River offers unparalleled opportunities for snorkeling and swimming with these lovable sea creatures. Visit during the winter months, and you'll find hundreds of manatees seeking refuge in the warm waters of the Crystal River springs, creating an unforgettable wildlife encounter.

• Cedar Key - Old Florida Charm: Step back in time and immerse yourself in the quaint, old-world charm of Cedar Key. Tucked away on the Gulf of Mexico, this small island exudes a laid-back atmosphere with its historic buildings, art galleries, and delicious seafood restaurants. Explore the peaceful marshlands, spot a variety of bird species, and revel in stunning sunsets that paint the sky with an array of colors.

• Dry Tortugas National Park - Island Adventure: Accessible only by boat or seaplane, the Dry Tortugas National Park is a remote island paradise that feels like a hidden oasis. Home to the historic Fort Jefferson, this national park boasts crystal-clear waters, thriving coral reefs, and pristine beaches. Snorkel among colorful marine life, explore the fort's intriguing history, and bask in the solitude of this secluded gem.

• Mount Dora - Quaint Lakeside Delight: Nestled along the banks of Lake Dora, this charming town captivates visitors with its vintage architecture, boutique shops, and delightful eateries. Stroll through the picturesque streets, take a leisurely boat tour on the lake, and indulge in the town's famous annual festivals celebrating art, music, and antiques.

• St. George Island - Serene Seclusion: Escape the crowds and seek serenity on St. George Island, a hidden gem off Florida's Gulf Coast. Unspoiled beaches stretch for miles, offering a peaceful retreat for beachcombers and nature enthusiasts. Enjoy fishing, birdwatching, or simply lounging under the sun as you savor the tranquility of this pristine paradise.

• Anna Maria Island - Quaint Beach Getaway: For a quintessential beach getaway without the bustling crowds, head to Anna Maria Island. This slice of paradise boasts sugary white sands, turquoise waters, and a charming small-town ambiance. Bike along the scenic trails, savor fresh seafood at beachside eateries, and catch awe-inspiring sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico.

• Bok Tower Gardens - Botanical Paradise: Located in Lake Wales, Bok Tower Gardens is a hidden gem for nature enthusiasts and garden lovers. Stroll through stunning gardens, listen to the serene sounds of the Singing Tower carillon, and revel in breathtaking vistas from Iron Mountain, making it a peaceful and enchanting escape.

Florida's hidden gems offer a chance to explore lesser-known wonders, embrace natural beauty, and create unforgettable memories away from the crowds. So, the next time you find yourself planning a trip to the Sunshine State, remember to venture off the beaten path and discover the true treasures that Florida has to offer. Happy exploring!

We hope this edition of 60 and Lovin It  Newsletter inspires you to embrace health, nurture relationships, and embark on exciting adventures. Remember, life is a journey filled with endless opportunities for growth and fulfillment. Let's make the most of it together!

Stay  fabulous!

Laurie

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