Things Mom Never Said: Secrets to Aging Well

In this episode, Sherry and April discuss the profound impact of kindness on individuals and society. They explore the various definitions of kindness, its health benefits, and practical ways to incorporate kindness into daily life. The conversation emphasizes the importance of self-kindness, compassion, and the ripple effect of small acts of kindness in creating a more positive world.Key Takeaways:Kindness is a personal and inward quality that we need to express outwardly.Acts of kindness can be as simple as holding a door or helping someone in need.Kindness has numerous health benefits, including reducing stress and improving mood.Being kind can lead to a longer life and better overall health.Random acts of kindness can inspire others to be kind as well.Compassion for others is a vital aspect of kindness.Self-kindness is essential for emotional well-being.Practicing kindness can create a ripple effect in communities.Kindness can be demonstrated through small gestures that have a big impact.Being aware of our surroundings can help us practice kindness more effectively.Medical Resources/Info:https://www.heart.org/en/news/2022/02/15/does-kindness-equal-happiness-and-healthhttps://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.orgPractice the art of kindnesshttps://www.psychiatry.orgThe Mental Health Benefits of Simple Acts of Kindnesshttps://hsph.harvard.edu/news/kindness-linked-to-better-physical-health-longevity/https://www.health.harvard.eduThe healing power of kindness - Harvard Healthhttps://www.heart.orgDoes kindness equal happiness and health?

In this engaging conversation, April and her mother, Sherry, discuss the themes of aging, wellness, and the importance of vulnerability. They explore the launch of April's new book, the challenges of the publishing process, and the significance of authenticity in personal growth. The discussion touches on imposter syndrome, the role of criticism, and the journey towards creating a fulfilling life. With humor and insight, they encourage listeners to embrace their unique paths and find joy in their experiences.Key Takeaways:The importance of open communication about aging and wellness.The new book, GEN-X the Adult Era: Designing a Life of Wellness, can serve as a guide for women at any stage of life.Authenticity is key to personal growth and happiness.Vulnerability can lead to criticism, but it is also a source of strength.Expectations should be low, but commitment should be high.Creating a life of wellness requires self-reflection and action.Criticism often stems from jealousy and insecurity.Finding your flow is essential for a fulfilling life.Connection with others can enhance personal growth.Embracing your unique journey is crucial for happiness.Medical Resources/Info:The Arena Speech:https://www.worldfuturefund.org/Documents/maninarena.htmBook Webpage: https://www.wellnessdesigngroup.com/genx-the-adult-era 

In this episode, April and Sherry discuss the importance of home design in reducing stress and enhancing well-being. They explore how the environment affects mental health, emphasizing the role of organization, natural materials, calming colors, and scents. The conversation highlights practical tips for creating a tranquil home atmosphere, especially during the stressful holiday season, and the significance of light in uplifting mood.Key Takeaways:The home environment significantly impacts mental health and stress levels.Natural materials can create a calming atmosphere in the home.Colors like blue and green are known to lower blood pressure and promote calmness.Scent plays a crucial role in evoking memories and emotions, influencing mood.Daylight exposure boosts serotonin production, enhancing happiness.Using calming scents can trigger positive emotional responses.Simple changes, like using natural baskets, can elevate the home experience.Creating a visually appealing space can reduce feelings of chaos and overwhelm.Light is essential for mood enhancement; mirrors can help reflect natural light.Personal preferences in home design can lead to a more fulfilling living space.Medical Resources/Info:https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6926748/https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5981243/https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/resources/stress-less-healthier-heart-fact-sheethttps://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/so-stressed-out-fact-sheethttps://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/stresshttps://orwh.od.nih.gov/in-the-spotlight/all-articles/7-steps-manage-stress-and-build-resiliencehttps://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6766028/https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1892106/https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9224521/https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4419447/https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7182185/https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8056120/https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22286798/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4329734/https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3779905/https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12480364/https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/mental-wealth/201409/why-cfls-arent-such-bright-idea

In this conversation, April and her mother, Sherry, explore the importance of standing in one's own power, particularly for women. They discuss the challenges of authenticity, the role of ego in communication, and the significance of self-reflection in personal growth. The dialogue emphasizes the need for kind and clear communication, especially in the context of difficult conversations, and highlights the journey of self-discovery and empowerment.Key Takeaways:The importance of standing in your own power.Women often face challenges in asserting their beliefs.Ego can hinder authentic communication.Authenticity is about being true to oneself, not being right.Self-reflection is crucial for personal growth.Navigating conversations requires kindness and clarity.It's important to recognize when to speak up and when to listen.Understanding others' experiences can enhance communication.Technology can complicate personal interactions.Empowerment comes from self-understanding and confidence.Medical Info/Resources:https://dailyritualyoga.com/yoga-blog/standing-in-your-powerhttps://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10432154/https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9887898/https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4588101/https://positivepsychology.com/active-listening/https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11210626/https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4270393/

In this conversation, April and Sherry discuss the significance of outdoor living and how it can enhance mental, physical, and emotional well-being. They explore the benefits of spending time outside, the importance of creating inviting outdoor spaces, and how to design these areas to flow seamlessly with indoor living. The discussion emphasizes the need to engage all senses in outdoor environments and encourages listeners to reflect on their own outdoor spaces and how they can improve their connection with nature.Key Takeaways:The power of outdoor living can greatly enhance well-being.Spending time outdoors can improve stress levels and mood.Creating a comfortable outdoor space encourages more time spent outside.Designing outdoor areas should reflect how you want to use them.Engaging all senses in outdoor spaces enhances the experience.Outdoor living can be beneficial for mental and physical health.Intentional design can create a seamless indoor-outdoor flow.Even small outdoor spaces can be transformed into relaxing areas.Weather considerations are important when designing outdoor spaces.Outdoor living encourages connection with nature and community.Medical Resources/Info:https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6562165/https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5010419/https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6751071/https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6751071/https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5483473/https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6562165/https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6562165/https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-019-44097-3https://www.fs.usda.gov/about-agency/features/wellness-benefits-great-outdoorshttps://extremephysiolmed.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/2046-7648-2-3https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rspb.2020.1811

In this conversation, April and Sherry discuss the significance of mindful experiences and the importance of being present in the moment. They explore how technology often distracts us from truly engaging with our surroundings and the people in our lives. The discussion emphasizes the need to disconnect from technology, set intentions for our experiences, and embrace the present moment to foster deeper connections and personal growth.Key Takeaways:Mindful experiences involve being present and aware without distractions.Disconnecting from technology can enhance our experiences and relationships.Multitasking is detrimental to our cognitive health and well-being.Setting intentions for our moments can lead to more fulfilling experiences.Engaging in activities like gardening or listening to music can promote mindfulness.Creating meaningful connections requires being fully present with others.Mindfulness can help reduce stress and improve overall quality of life.Aging well involves embracing mindful practices and self-awareness.Taking time to pause and reflect is essential for personal growth.We should prioritize experiences over capturing them for social media.Medical Resources/Info:https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6562165/https://healthtalk.unchealthcare.org/4-therapeutic-benefits-of-getting-outside/#:~:text=Studies%20show%20that%20spending%20time,the%20brain's%20feel%2Dgood%20chemicals.

In this episode, April and Sherry explore the profound healing properties of art, discussing its various forms and therapeutic benefits. They delve into how art influences emotional experiences, enhances health, and fosters creativity. The conversation also touches on the cultural significance of art and its role in society, as well as the science behind sound frequencies and their impact on well-being. Ultimately, they emphasize the importance of incorporating art into daily life for mental and emotional health.Key Takeaways:Art encompasses a wide variety of expressions, including music, dance, and visual arts.The therapeutic properties of art can create experiences that are mentally and physically healthy.Art can trigger emotional responses and enhance mood.Color theory in art can influence feelings and behaviors, such as hunger.Art can be used in pain management and to lower blood pressure.Creating art can boost self-esteem and cognitive function.Art appreciation and creation both have significant healing powers.Sound frequencies can have therapeutic effects on the body and mind.Art is a vital part of cultural identity and communication.Incorporating art into daily life can support emotional and mental well-being.Medical Resources/Info:https://www.who.int/initiatives/arts-and-healthhttps://mcpress.mayoclinic.org/living-well/the-intersection-of-art-and-health-how-art-can-help-promote-well-being/https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/explore-mental-health/blogs/how-arts-can-help-improve-your-mental-healthhttps://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2804629/https://www.arts.gov/impact/arts-and-healthhttps://stuyspec.com/article/the-psychology-of-rewatchinghttps://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/positively-media/202411/reap-the-benefits-of-rewatching-your-favorite-moviesHealing Frequency Chart: https://www.musicofwisdom.com/post/list-of-all-healing-frequencies-a-quick-guide 

In this episode, April and her mother Sherry discuss the evolution of women's rights across generations, exploring the struggles for equality, the impact of patriarchy, and the ongoing challenges women face today. They emphasize the importance of collective voices and the need for empowerment through knowledge and action, while also reflecting on personal experiences and societal expectations. The conversation highlights the historical context of women's rights and the hope for a future where equality is truly realized.Takeaways:The conversation about women's rights is generational and complex.Many women still feel they have no rights in society today.The fight for equality has seen progress but also setbacks.Patriarchy continues to impact women's rights and opportunities.Historical context is crucial to understanding current challenges.Empowerment comes from knowledge and collective action.Society plays a significant role in shaping women's rights.Personal experiences reflect broader societal issues.Change requires courage and a willingness to stand up.The future of women's rights depends on collective voices and actions.Medical Resources/Info:https://constitutioncenter.org/blog/can-the-equal-rights-amendment-be-brought-back-to-lifehttps://www.lwv.org/blog/equal-rights-amendment-law-land-0https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/senate-joint-resolution/39https://equalitynow.org/news/news-and-insights/the-era-and-the-path-forward-what-happens-after-bidens-declaration/https://www.americanprogress.org/article/the-era-solidifies-womens-rights-in-the-constitution-as-the-28th-amendment/https://www.hrw.org/news/2025/03/07/state-womens-rightshttps://nwlc.org/resource/project-2025-what-it-means-for-women-families-and-gender-justice/

In this episode, April and Sherry explore the multifaceted concept of freedom, discussing its definitions, personal experiences, and generational perspectives. They delve into the importance of individual autonomy, the balance between freedom and responsibility, and the societal norms that shape our understanding of freedom. The conversation emphasizes the need for love and positivity in fostering a free society, while also acknowledging the challenges and negativity present in the world today. Ultimately, they encourage listeners to reflect on their own experiences of freedom and how to cultivate it in their lives.Takeaways:Freedom is often associated with societal and political contexts, but it is fundamentally about personal autonomy.Understanding freedom requires introspection and recognizing the constraints we place on ourselves.Generational differences shape our experiences and perceptions of freedom.Women, in particular, have historically faced limitations that they must overcome to embrace their freedom.Personal experiences and relationships significantly influence one's sense of freedom.Freedom comes with the responsibility of making choices and facing their consequences.A loving and positive mindset can enhance our experience of freedom.The conversation around freedom should focus on individual experiences rather than political narratives.Change is inevitable, and embracing it can lead to greater freedom and growth.Recognizing and releasing limiting beliefs is essential for experiencing true freedom.Medical Resources/Info:https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/freedomhttps://crossingmybridges.com/exploring-the-deeper-meaning-of-freedom/https://firstamendment.mtsu.edu/7-things-to-know-about-the-first-amendment/https://freedomhouse.org/https://www.archives.gov/founding-docs/bill-of-rights/what-does-it-sayhttps://constitution.congress.gov/constitution/amendment-1/https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/psychology-insights-new-world/202111/responsibility-freedom-empowerment-and-mental-healthhttps://teachingamericanhistory.org/document/responsibility-and-freedom/https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0092656616302045https://philosophy.jhu.edu/faculty-books/freedom-and-responsibility/https://www.fordfoundation.org/news-and-stories/big-ideas/with-four-freedoms-four-responsibilities/

We're mid way through the year, so it's a great time to clear the path for great things to come. On this episode we're taking an inventory of our goals for 2025, the current state of things, and looking to our values and beliefs to help us stay on our path toward greater well-being. Medical Info/Resources:Values Exercisehttps://sakai.ohsu.edu/access/content/group/Kathlynn_Tutorials/public/Value%20Ca… Online Assessments:Myers Briggs = https://www.mbtionline.com/ VIA Character Strengths = https://www.viacharacter.org/ PI (Predictive Index) = https://www.predictiveindex.com/ Personal Values Assessment = https://personalvalu.es/ Gen-X The Adult Era: Designing a Life of Wellness (on our own as usual) by April Raque, NBC-HWCPre-order:Barnes & Noblehttps://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/gen-x-the-adult-era-april-raque/1146978557?ean=9780997064247Targethttps://www.target.com/p/gen-x-the-adult-era-by-april-raque-paperback/-/A-1002522515#lnk=sametabWalmarthttps://www.walmart.com/ip/Gen-X-the-Adult-Era-Designing-a-Life-of-Wellness-on-Our-Own-as-Usual-Paperback-9780997064247/15272314597?classType=REGULAR&from=/search Amazonhttps://a.co/d/3gLk5VcSeptember 28th - Naples Event Registration:https://www.eventbrite.com/e/launch-party-and-signing-for-rebeca-books-tickets-1410601239279?aff=oddtdtcreator

It's time to dig in and cultivate a health existence. On this episode, we're talking about the health benefits of gardening. We can learn a lot from the longest lived people and our ancestors when it comes to why we should spend a little time getting our hands dirty. Medical Info/Resources:https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0264275121000160https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/001391657300500202https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01924788.2013.784942 https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/dig-into-the-benefits-of-gardeninghttps://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6334070/https://pureportal.coventry.ac.uk/en/publications/the-benefits-of-gardening-and-food-growing-for-health-and-wellbeihttps://meridian.allenpress.com/jeh/article/14/4/204/79560/Benefits-of-Community-Gardening-on-Quality-of-Lifehttps://www.bluezones.com/2020/05/research-shows-gardening-at-home-improves-well-being-and-overall-happiness/https://www.balancedsoulindy.com/blog/cultivating-longevity-in-the-blue-zones https://www.iberdrola.com/sustainability/seed-banks-future-of-biodiversityhttps://fsii.in/importance-of-seed-banks/ https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/blog/2020/12/what-is-a-seed-bank/ Supplies/Seeds:https://www.gardeners.com/https://www.livingseedcompany.com/https://shop.seedsavers.org/featured/organichttps://www.allianceofnativeseedkeepers.com/https://seedsource.com/native-seed/

On this episode, we're talking about what we need to know and share with younger generations about aging. Mother to daughter, we reveal how little was passed down and share what we now know about what is most important in living better longer.Medical Resources/Info:Prime Time Health - a book by Dr. William Sears

On this episode, my mom and I celebrate the dawn of menopause and move into the next journey - that of post-menopause and all her glory..Medical Resources/Info:No research just the story of my life!Pre-Order is now available online at Barnes & Noble, Target, Walmart, Amazon, and by request through your local bookseller for my new book... Gen-X The Adult Era: Designing a Life of Wellness (on our own, as usual)  by April Raque (Release Date: October 7, 2023)

Prepare yourself, because Mother's Day is right around the corner. We don't think your expectations are too high. After all, you deserve to be treated to a day off and full pampering. It's just that you're just going to have to do it yourself to have those expectations met. This episode, my mother and are are talking about what we thought this fun holiday would be like, the reality, and things we can do to make it the event that it SHOULD be.Places to Find Good Ideas:https://www.oprahdaily.com/life/relationships-love/a43851779/what-moms-really-want-for-mothers-day/https://anthemstrongfamilies.org/what-does-a-mother-really-want-for-mothers-day/https://www.sleepfullbaby.com/blog/what-do-moms-actually-want-for-mothers-day-5000-moms-answeredhttps://infantino.com/blogs/blog/celebrate-you

This episode we're talking about spring cleaning your self, your whole self - Mind, Body, and Spirit. We're talking about why it's important to take a total inventory of 15 different areas of your life, what you can do to improve your experience, and the benefits that come from all of this intentional clean up.Medical Resources/Info:https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8305859/https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3126102/https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/search/research-news/2037/https://newsinhealth.nih.gov/2015/08/positive-emotions-your-healthhttps://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10740995/https://news2use.ors.nih.gov/Pages/-Words-of-Encouragement-in-Challenging-Times.aspxhttps://blog.nasm.org/spring-cleaning-tips-for-your-guthttps://www.nih.gov/health-information/your-healthiest-self-wellness-toolkitshttps://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/search/research-news/15729/https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/search/research-news/18804/https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-roots-of-health/202204/why-spring-cleaning-is-good-for-your-healthhttps://grad.uc.edu/student-life/news/spring-cleaning-strategies.htmlhttps://chhs.news.niu.edu/2020/04/08/nutrition-in-you-spring-cleaning-and-detox-diets/https://newsinhealth.nih.gov/2012/01/mindfulness-matters

This episode kicks off our two-part series on spring cleaning. In part one, we are discussing spring cleaning your home for improved environmental wellness. We're diving into all this clean from clutter to toxic products and how a clean home will bring you joy and so much more.Medical Info/Resources:https://my.clevelandclinic.org/podcasts/health-essentials/decluttering-your-life-how-cleaning-and-mental-health-are-connected-with-dr-dawn-potterhttps://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9736414/https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6726387/https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC1448690/https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38917624/https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7315790/Environmental Working Group: https://www.ewg.org/cleaners/

You have one job in the entire universe (in your time here) and that is to take care of you. On this episode, my mom and I are talking about the new self-care, sharing our perspectives, what makes this different, how to begin, and where it might lead. Taking care of your human is more complex, deeper, all-encompassing. Medical Info/Resources:https://hbr.org/2020/08/reframe-how-you-think-about-self-care https://hbr.org/2020/10/serious-leaders-need-self-care-too https://hbr.org/2021/04/theres-no-right-way-to-do-self-care https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/caring-for-your-mental-health https://www.ephysician.ir/index.php/browse-issues/2017/9/802-5212https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/stress/2015/snapshothttps://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10943-017-0400-6https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26026153/https://www.annualreviews.org/content/journals/10.1146/annurev.psych.60.110707.163539https://www.psychiatricnursing.org/article/S0883-9417(20)30559-8/fulltextMatt Husey InterviewPart 1  https://youtu.be/YrJxrxotvi0?si=TkEml_Ldv04kmOYoPart 2. https://youtu.be/kBbM3oVvUNQ?si=O-DX7Sf-I440Mr0zAnother https://youtu.be/bbomohAqD_Q?si=858kuVBhQcUGxg9_ 

On this episode my mom and I are talking about the importance of having a ride or die friendship.Medical Resources/Info:https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10343095/https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6441127/https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4045505/https://www.apa.org/monitor/2023/06/cover-story-science-friendshiphttps://www.oprahdaily.com/life/wholeness/a46751752/sharon-malone-grown-women-talk-excerpt/https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9902704/https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/friendships/art-20044860https://www.taylorfrancis.com/chapters/edit/10.4324/9781351231879-5/role-friendships-well-being-beverley-fehr-cheryl-harasymchukhttps://www.cell.com/neuron/fulltext/S0896-6273(19)30434-9https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10872903/

This episode is all about the power of being grateful. My mom and I are talking about how gratitude leads to happiness and a fulfilled life. Medical Resources/Info:https://positivepsychology.com/benefits-of-gratitude/https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/can-expressing-gratitude-improve-healthhttps://newsinhealth.nih.gov/2019/03/practicing-gratitudehttps://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3010965/https://positivepsychology.com/gratitude-happiness-research/https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32579432/https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/health-and-happiness-go-hand-in-handhttps://www.health.harvard.edu/healthbeat/giving-thanks-can-make-you-happierhttps://positivepsychology.com/gratitude-appreciation/

On this episode, my mom and I are exploring habit change. We are diving into the difficulties we encounter, how to set ourselves up for success, be prepared for challenges, and gather the support we need to successfully make a change in our lives.