Archives by: Compiled by NEO Thrive Staff from Outside Sources

Compiled by NEO Thrive Staff from Outside Sources

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Compiled by NEO Thrive Staff from Outside Sources Posts

Hello, Hummingbirds. Greetings, Grosbeaks. It’s Bird Time!

That's not your imagination. We're in the height of spring nesting and migrating season and the early-morning backyard songfest can be deafening. Isn't it great? The red-breasted grosbeaks started showing up in Northeast Ohio about two weeks ago. They may be checking out your bird feeders, fresh from their migration from Mexico and Central America. May is a wonderful month to see a wide variety of birds in your backyard. And if you've got birdhouses, wreaths or other handy spots for a nest, you'll probably see robins, bluebirds, wrens and others tending their young. ...
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Stan Hywet is Open for Free Garden Strolls

Now here's a bit of good news for garden lovers that will make life seem closer to normal. Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens has postponed its opening (that's the sad part) but the gardens are open for walkers and gawkers (that's the happy part). And as a bonus,  it'll cost you nothing to see all the spring tulips, flowering trees and other glorious, seasonal blooms. ...
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Cook-From-Your-Cupboard Meal Tactics

It turns out that, for many of us, what we liked best about restaurant dining wasn't just the food but it was the experience of eating in the restaurant, sitting down with friends and family and being served a meal in a pleasant atmosphere. ...
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Things are Getting Wild in Geauga County

Grab a nature guide and take a walk or a drive in one of Geauga County's 25 county parks. Then tell someone what you saw — all while practicing social distancing, of course. A website makes it easy; good eyes and attention to detail make it rewarding. ...
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Take a Break (in person or online) with Medina County Parks

As part of our ongoing series on the region's terrific county park systems, we're taking a trek over to Medina County. While some parks are closed, others are open for leisurely rambles. Go to medinacountyparks.com for the latest updates. In the meantime, sit back and enjoy these links to see what's blooming and moving this spring in Medina's parks. ...
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Covering the Face-Cover Basics

It sounds easy, doesn't it? The latest word from Governor Mike DeWine and Dr. Amy Acton about facemasks is, we should wear them in public. But if you've tried to fashion one of your own and ventured to the grocery store with it on your face, you know there's more to the story. Homemade masks and bandanas can be awkward, hot, and uncomfortable. And are they really protecting us from the COVID-19 virus? Yes, and here's how to make sure you're covered. ...
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A Paws-itive Benefit of Our New Normal? We’re Spending More Time Outside

While we're all getting accustomed to the ins and outs of social distancing, at least we're spending more time in our wonderful county parks. Each week, we'll highlight different trails to try. Our spotlight park system this week is Lake Metroparks. With more than 50 miles of trails and six parks along the Lake Erie Shoreline, Lake Metroparks has a lot to explore. Read on to discover the Top 5 Dog Hikes. ...
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Plan Snacks, Meals with Care When Working from Home

 

Working from home can have added temptations….so how can you stay productive and not spend the entire day eating unhealthy snacks?   Below are some suggestions along with a list of healthy snacks including some recipes to help.

Not sure what to make with what you have? Try supercook.com. Just pop in a list of the ingredients you have on hand and the website will suggest recipes.

Stick to a regular eating schedule

Though the current climate is a bit hectic, stick to your normal schedule as best as you can. Try to eat at the same time that you would if you were at the office.  Set an alert on your phone to break for a proper lunch every day.

Make snacks ahead of time

Try to mitigate excessive snacking by planning ahead. Put some healthy snack options in clear containers, on eye-level shelves in your fridge and pantry.

Change up your environment

If you notice that you are prone to stress eating, change locations. Moving your workstation can help you better manage the urge to eat. Or just take a break from work and whatever is making you feel overwhelmed. If possible, go outside for some fresh air.

 

Listen to your body

Is your urge to eat from hunger or just from boredom or stress?  For example, if you notice having a poor sleep cycle has increased your snacking, then avoid stressful news programs before bed.

Be kind to yourself

Stress eating isn’t a sign of failure.  As best as you can, stick to a healthy eating schedule and try to set alarms to go for walks or breathe deeply to reduce stress.

Sample healthy snacks:

Mixed nuts

Nuts are an ideal nutritious snack. They’re linked to a reduced risk of heart disease and may help prevent certain cancers, depression, and other illnesses.

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