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Many of us have turned to hiking as a way to safely connect with friends while getting some much-needed exercise, fresh air and sunshine. That was easy to do when the weather was nice and the days were long. Winter is a tougher sell. Don’t be intimidated. Judging by the dozens of hikes scheduled each week throughout Northeast Ohio, a lot of people are doing a lot of wintertime hiking and they encourage the winter-weary to join them. ...

It’s easy to idealize our 20s, now that they’re firmly in our rearview mirror. It was a fun part of my life, but it also came with an undercurrent of uncertainty. I knew that a lot was going to happen, but my path was bracketed by fuzzy outlines that intimidated rather than inspired. ...

Many of our parents come from a generation during which they relied solely on the doctor to understand, identify and quickly know the answers to our medical concerns. The patient-doctor exchange was primarily focused on the doctor’s input, while the patient rarely questioned or added additional information. ...

One of the positives of 2020 was an opportunity to review aspects of life that were not serving us well. I ask that you take a few moments to consider the following for your brain care and wellness as you enter 2021:
 What aspects of your life would you like to return to post-COVID-19?
 What aspects of your life would you like to reinvent, repurpose and refold back into your life following the pandemic? ...

Feeling down? Dr. Krystal Culler reminds us that there are many ways to find small uplifts in our daily lives. Seek these moments out and work to be present in them when they occur. After all, happiness is our inside work but we can benefit from other boosts in our environment and the way in which we live our lives: Reach out to others, stay active, rest well, nourish to flourish, meditate, spend time outdoors, and express gratitude. These actions can spark inspiration to find happiness in your day and create moments of joy for yourself. ...

Birth month flowers, like stars and gemstones, have symbolic and sentimental meanings. There's the January carnation, the April daisy and the October marigold, for starters. Find your birth month flower and see if its symbolism characterizes you. ...

What better way to spend a winter day than enjoying exotic orchids? We're in luck. Head over to the Cleveland Botanical Garden and prepare to be surprised by the variety of shapes, colors and fragrances from these delicate-looking flowers. ...

Look for the January/February issue of Northeast Ohio Boomer and Beyond coming to newsstands (Marc's, Discount Drug Mart, Giant Eagle and others) starting Jan. 21. Of course, Boomer Insider Club members get our print issue mailed directly to their homes. But if you're out and about, look for our next issue featuring winter hikes throughout Northeast Ohio, just for starters. You can also read the issue online at northeastohioboomer.com. You'll find a wide range of topics that will enrich your journey to “Better Living After 50.” ...