News reports say that Mrs. Shriver had suffered a stroke and a broken hip a few years ago. Sadly, we know that often broken bones, like hips, in the elderly can cause a serious health decline (Fractures Raise Mortality Rates in Seniors).

Mrs. Shriver may have been a member of an American political dynasty, but she’ll likely be better remembered for her devotion to a cause that was started in her own backyard: the Special Olympics.

Originally a day camp for a few people has grown into an organization that helps millions of physically and mentally challenged children and adults (One Woman’s Vision). And if anyone was to ever doubt the importance of the Special Olympics, all they have to do is watch these athletes as they play and compete to the best of their ability. And speak to one of the athletes after the competition – you will learn more than you thought you could.

How do I know this? My (foster) brother has Down’s Syndrome. Now, he’s in his early 30s and has been competing in Special Olympics events for several years. He bowls, he swims and he loves every minute of it. And he’s darned good at them too.

Whether you’re a fan of the Kennedy family or not, no-one can ever take away what Mrs. Shriver has done for millions of people and their families and friends.

Rest in peace.

~~~~

Images: ZumaPress.com and PhotoXpress.com

Post from: Blisstree

Special Olympics’ Eunice Shriver, RIP

Lots of research over the recent years have pointed to the benefits of napping. I know a lot of people say that they can’t nap because they fall into too deep a sleep and that is a problem. But if you’re able to take the light 20 to 30 minute naps, it makes a big difference. Sometimes, for me it only takes a 10 minute snooze. And, I’m not alone.

According to a new study, a third of adult Americans take daily naps and they’re not all slackers. In fact, some very important people in history were nappers. They include Albert Einstein, Thomas Edison, Winston Churchill, and John F. Kennedy.

In 2007, a study came out that said napping could improve your heart health (Afternoon naps may boost heart health ). Researchers followed 24,000 subjects, some who napped and some who didn’t. The researchers found that even after accounting for outside factors such as the food they ate and their levels of physical activity, those who napped at least three times per week (30 minutes or longer) had a 37% lower risk of dying from heart disease than those who didn’t nap.

But how do you become a napper if it’s not your thing? Here are some tips that may help:

• Choose a quiet, dim place, but not too dark that you’ll be lulled into a deeper sleep
• If you can’t lie down, try to find a way to recline a bit. If you can’t do that, sitting up is possible, but you have to find a way that you’re comfortable and you can relax.
• Plan your nap. Tell yourself you’re taking a 20/30 minute nap and that you’ll wake up fresh and alert. You may be able to use your watch or cell phone to set an alarm. That way you won’t worry about oversleeping
• Use an eye mask, as used on airplanes, if you need some darkness.
• Allow yourself to nap. Sometimes, this is the hardest part.

Do you take naps? Do you have any special tricks to share?

~~~~~

Image courtesy PhotoXpress.com

Post from: Blisstree

Napping, Time Well Spent

President John F. Kennedy was born on May 29 in 1917. The 35th president of the United States was also an avid sportsman, an author (”Profiles in Courage,” among other titles), a WWII hero, and a recipient of a Purple Heart Medal. Unfortunately, he died way too young, at age 46 on that tragic day in Dallas after having served less than three years as president.

Happy Birthday, Mr. President.

^{(photo of JFK and his brothers, Robert and Ted © Newscom)}

Post from: Blisstree

JFK’s Birthday