Month: February 2023

2023-02-13T16:01:00

(BPT) –

Travel is top of mind in 2023, with many people wanting to make up for lost time by getting the most out of every vacation this year. The more memory-making potential a destination offers the better, which is why Tuolumne County, California, is one you definitely want to consider for your next trip.

Tuolumne County is a special place within the Golden State. With wide-open spaces, small crowds and plenty of activities, there’s something for everyone year-round — from solo explorers to multigenerational families. It’s close to other California destinations, with San Francisco a 2.5-hour drive away and Sacramento a 2-hour drive.

Many people visit Tuolumne County to get away and savor nature. Known for adventure and eco-friendly tourism, this is ideal for many people who have resolutions to enjoy the outdoors more and make efforts to protect the planet.

Of course, it’s also a place where memory making comes easy, thanks to three incredible areas that offer a plethora of attractions: Yosemite National Park, Gold Country and the High Sierra.

Awe-inspiring Yosemite

Over half of Yosemite National Park is in Tuolumne County — and it’s the least crowded half, too. Explore the northern side of the park and take in the picturesque peaks and pristine flora and fauna, including the massive Sequoia trees. The park recently removed their requirement to have a reservation, so it’s easier than ever to visit when it works best for you.

Keep in mind, 95% of visitors see 5% of Yosemite; explore the less visited and uncrowded areas outside the Valley Floor, like Hetch Hetchy Reservoir and the Tuolumne Grove of Giant Sequoias. In fact, the Hetch Hetchy is considered a hidden gem and has one of the longest hiking seasons of any of the park attractions.

While summer is the most popular time to visit the park, there’s great potential for travels October through April when it is much less crowded, not to mention more affordable. Enjoy hiking and boating in the summer, festivals and leaves changing color in the fall, snowshoeing in the winter, and wildflowers and waterfalls in the spring.

Historic Gold Country

The California Gold Rush is why this area is aptly named Gold Country. An important time in American history, this destination today lets visitors step back in time and explore historic parks and other attractions in towns like Sonora, Jamestown and Columbia.

For example, check out Columbia State Historic Park, California’s best-preserved, living gold rush town. Start by exploring the extensive collection of gold rush–era structures in the state. Then try your hand at panning for gold, which is harder than it looks. You can also ride a stagecoach and take in a live performance at the historic Fallon House Theatre for a truly unique glimpse into the past.

To experience the historic magic of cinema, visit Railtown 1897 State Historic Park. Known as “The Movie Railroad,” Railtown and its trains have been featured in hundreds of movies and TV shows. The 26-acre park offers seasonal excursion train rides behind a historic steam or diesel locomotive, plus daily roundhouse and movie prop tours.

The High Sierra experience

Adventurers unite and delight in the High Sierra, featuring stunning areas along the Highway 108 corridor. No matter your definition of outdoor adventure, you’ll find ample options for camping, hiking, biking, boating, rafting, fishing, horseback riding and winter sports.

For adventures all year long, visit Dodge Ridge Mountain Resort. As the closest snow location to the Bay Area and Central Valley, this is your place for snowboarding, skiing and other winter activities in the High Sierra. Plus, the resort is now open in the warm weather months, offering disc golf and mountain biking as temperatures rise.

Located 60 miles east of Sonora, another breathtaking area is Kennedy Meadows. Nestled high in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, you’ll discover natural wonders that take your breath away. You can stay at the resort, in a cabin or at the campgrounds, with plenty of hiking options for beginners, experts and all levels in between.

From sips to sights — something for everyone

No matter your preferences, there’s plenty to do in these three awesome areas of Tuolumne County. Explore the trails and claim your badges through the Trail Heads program, which includes a downloadable map of the top 12 trails in the county and the opportunity to earn badges as you complete trails.

You can even toast to your vacation memories — no hiking necessary. Sip your way from Sonora to Yosemite on the Tuolumne County Craft Beverage Trail presented by Visit Tuolumne County. Raise a glass to the past near Columbia State Historic Park or grab a growler of your favorite brew in Groveland!

Visit Tuolumne County’s travel campaign is “Wander Freely,” focusing on the idea of losing your to-do list and the stress of daily life and letting nature lead the way. The travel bureau is celebrating its 40th anniversary and has plenty in store for fun throughout the year. Learn more at VisitTuolumne.com. No matter which activities you choose to do, thank you for adventuring responsibly.

2023-02-13T10:01:00

(BPT) – Do you want to adopt healthier habits this year? Improving your holistic wellness goes beyond improving your exercise and diet. There are many ways to invest in your health in 2023. Not sure where to start? Check out these five ways to set yourself up for a healthier you this year.

1. Take a tech fast

Being connected 24/7 can be exhausting mentally and emotionally. While many people associate excessive screentime with the millennials and Gen Z, older Americans are also spending more time in front of screens.

According to The Economist, Americans aged 50 and older spend nearly 10 hours a day consuming media on TVs, computers and smartphones. Using technology isn’t bad in and of itself, but too much screen time can contribute to digital eyestrain, insomnia and neck and shoulder pain.

Just like your electronics, you need to recharge, which ironically requires you to unplug. This year, plan a tech fast. Go camping, take a hike, spend a day reading or playing board games. You can keep your phone nearby for emergencies but turn it off or put it on “Do Not Disturb” so you can focus on being present in the here and now.

2. Don’t miss health care deadlines

Health care can be a confusing topic, especially when it comes to enrollment deadlines. However, making sure you’re on top of these deadlines can save you headaches down the road when you need to visit the doctor.

For example, if you missed signing up for Medicare when you were first eligible (for most people, this is when you turn 65), you can still sign up during the general enrollment period, which starts on January 1 and goes through March 31 of that year, to enroll in this health insurance option. However, missing your initial eligibility enrollment period might cost you a late penalty fee. While there are later Medicare enrollment periods in the year to supplement your existing Medicare plan, it can be more complicated to maneuver. Mark this and other important health care deadlines in your calendar to stay on top of your health in 2023. We also recommend paying attention to things Original Medicare does not include that you might need supplemental coverage for.

3. Invest in your vision

Even if you have excellent sight, make sure to take care of your vision this year. As you age, you may start to notice that it’s more difficult to see at close distances. Or, you may feel your eyes straining when reading, watching TV or working on a computer. To make sure your eyes are functioning well and to detect any eye-related conditions in their early stages, it’s a good idea to get an annual eye exam. Individual Vision Plans can also offer a wider range of vision coverage than things like Original Medicare and discount plans. Not all insurances cover annual eye exams, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get coverage. You can enroll in a VSP^® Individual Vision Plan any time of year, so you don’t have to worry about remembering enrollment deadlines. Individual vision plans are simple, personalized benefits that cost as low as $13 a month and provide an average savings of over $300 per year. To learn more, visit getvspdirect.com.

4. Reduce stress

Did you know that long-term stress can cause a whole host of health problems? According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, managing and preventing long-term stress can lower your risk of heart disease, obesity, high blood pressure and depression. You can also feel the physical effects of stress on your body, like headaches, trouble sleeping, stomach aches and tense muscles.

While you can’t always completely avoid stress, you can plan your day and week to reduce or manage short- and long-term stress. Carve out time in your schedule for relaxation. Try meditation, yoga or an activity that you find relaxing to help you destress after a trying workday.

5. Stack habits

When you want to add a new habit to your routine, pair it with one you already complete consistently. According to Melissa Ming Foynes, Ph.D., your existing habits are wired into your brain. By building on to those existing connections instead of trying to create brand new neural connections whole stock, you’re more likely to follow through.

For example, if you want to drink more water, stack drinking a glass of water after you brush your teeth. Brushing your teeth acts as a reminder to drink water, which will make it easier to integrate and maintain this habit into your daily routine.

Make 2023 the year you create and maintain healthier habits. Using these five tips, you can start investing in your wellness and set yourself up for a healthier year.

2023-02-13T08:27:00

(BPT) – According to a recent Forbes Health poll, improving mental health was cited as one of the top New Year’s resolutions for 2023. For those seeking a mental healthcare provider, finding the right one can feel much like dating — overwhelming to find someone who shares the same values, meets your needs, and with whom you feel a connection. However, finding an attentive, caring and knowledgeable therapist can pay dividends on your mental well-being.

“Working with a provider with whom you have a strong and trusting relationship can have a significant impact on the success of mental health treatment. That’s why it’s important to find someone who aligns with your needs and makes you feel comfortable and heard so you can make progress in your mental health journey,” notes Dr. Shakira Espada-Campos, associate chief of behavioral health at virtual care provider MDLIVE.

While finding the right provider can seem daunting, according to Dr. Espada-Campos, there are a few simple things to keep in mind that can help you find the right match:

1. Understand your needs first

When it comes to your initial search, look for a provider that meets your basic needs. First, determine whether you need a psychiatrist or therapist. While psychiatrists and therapists can provide treatment for many of the same issues, psychiatrists are doctors who can diagnose psychiatric conditions and prescribe medication, while therapists are licensed providers who can assess and support emotional or behavioral health concerns through talk therapy. Once you know the type of professional you’re looking for, do some digging into what a potential provider offers. Does their experience and specialty areas meet your needs? Do they offer night and weekend appointments? Doing the research upfront to determine compatibility at the base level will help minimize unexpected issues later.

2. Location doesn’t have to be a dealbreaker

Virtual care has become an increasingly popular option for mental health services, as it provides private and convenient access to quality care in a timely manner. In fact, many health plans and employers have expanded benefits to cover virtual mental healthcare services. This has allowed for the “dating” pool to expand, meaning it’s easier than ever to find a provider that fits your needs — even if they’re in a different zip code. Building an ongoing relationship with a virtual therapist or psychiatrist is just as meaningful as it would be with an in-person provider.

3. Dig deep on the first date

Once you’ve found a provider that meets your needs, the first visit can help illuminate further. Just like on a first date, you may be apprehensive of coming on too strong by asking a ton of questions, but doing so offers the perfect opportunity to see whether the therapist is a match for you both on and off paper, which can lead to a trusting and healthy relationship in the long run. Some questions that may help gauge your compatibility include: What is your training and background? Do you have experience with the issues I am facing? How can we work together to achieve my goals? What does a typical session look like?

4. Recognize when it’s time to move on

As with any relationship, the initial stage may be enjoyable, but then you start to get a nagging feeling that something isn’t working. The same can be said for working with a therapist. Sometimes, a provider isn’t the right fit; and that’s OK. If you find that sessions aren’t making you feel better generally, you’re not making progress with the goals you established together, or you feel they are not making adequate space for you, it might be time to find a different provider. No one should be forced to settle in a relationship, romantic or otherwise, if it doesn’t feel quite right.

5. Breaking up isn’t hard to do

There are many fish, er, mental health providers in the sea, so you shouldn’t feel pressured to stay with one simply because you chose them originally. For example, MDLIVE’s platform makes it easy for you to choose from an extensive list of licensed therapists and board-certified psychiatrists, schedule an appointment, and change your provider at any time if you feel it isn’t quite working out. When you do feel it’s time to cut ties with your therapist, it’s important to be transparent — simply explain to your provider that you plan to end your treatment with them in your next session. This offers an opportunity to evaluate your work together and may also help you reflect on what you might need in a future provider.

Recognizing your wants and priorities in a mental healthcare provider can help make the process of finding the right therapist a bit more seamless.

2023-02-13T07:01:01

(BPT) – Bringing a child into the world is a wonderful thing, but as new parents quickly learn, the journey, much like that tiny being, is in its infancy. After experiencing physiological and emotional changes throughout pregnancy and during childbirth, mothers may be eager to return to their pre-pregnancy rhythms. Birthing difficulties, fluctuating hormones, breastfeeding demands, interrupted sleep and other challenges, however, may conspire against one of the most basic rhythms: bowel regularity.

To get things moving, new mothers can reach for a natural and flavorful fiber-filled aid: pears. Ingesting enough fiber, staying hydrated and getting exercise can all help alleviate post-partum constipation naturally. But nutritious pears aren’t just for new mothers — they’re a healthy snack choice for the whole family and an ideal first food for baby.

One medium-size pear contains 6 grams of fiber or about 21% of the recommended daily amount, which can go a long way in keeping things moving along the digestive tract. That serving size weighs in at just about 100 calories and is completely fat- and cholesterol-free. As a bonus, pears contain vitamin C, carrying 8% of the daily need and supporting a healthy immune system.

Beyond their nutrition attributes, pears offer another advantage: enough sweetness and flavor to tempt even the smallest taste buds in your family. Getting enough fiber doesn’t need to be a battle at the dinner table. Each year, pear growers in Oregon and Washington produce 10 varieties that have distinct flavors and textures, and parents are sure to find a match for even the pickiest eater. Plus, many varieties are available year-round, which means pears can be a grocery list staple.

The versatility of pears is one more reason to keep them at the top of the shopping list. Pears can add sweetness and depth when blended into a breakfast smoothie. They can be sliced and eaten fresh as a snack, or those slices can be tossed into a lunch salad for extra fiber, flavor and texture. Pears can also make a rich side dish for dinner when roasted or grilled. More recipe ideas are available at usapears.org, including desserts featuring fresh and baked pears.

For the youngest member of the family, a pear can be the perfect first food. As new parents learn, post-partum constipation doesn’t affect only mothers. Infants transitioning to solid foods can experience similar digestive issues as they make the adjustment. A blended sweet pear delivers nutrition in an easily swallowed spoonful. And as babies grow, ripe pears can be soft enough to mash between their gums as more solid foods are added.

To enjoy the best flavor from a pear, it’s important to eat it at peak ripeness. Fortunately, finding a perfectly ripe pear is easy. Pears are one of the few fruits that don’t ripen on the tree; rather, the best way to ripen a pear is by storing it at room temperature. A pear is ripe and ready to eat when it gives a bit with gentle pressure applied to its neck.

Anytime is a good time to stock up on pears. They can be stored in the fridge to slow ripening and put on the counter near other ripening fruit to speed the process. The pear will get the hint, and the whole family will benefit.

2023-02-10T06:01:00

(BPT) – It’s that time of year again — after the holidays, you’re back to the usual and looking forward to your next vacation. Whether you’re planning a trip around the kids’ spring break or scheduling your own out-of-office getaway, these six unique spring break destinations have something for everyone to enjoy. Best of all? They aren’t on everyone’s radar, so there’s more for you and yours to enjoy without too many crowds.

A great travel tip is to look for direct flights to minimize the time spent at airports or in the air. In case plans change, savvy travelers know that it’s best to choose flights that offer flexible perks, like same-day changes, no change fees and more.

The 6 Best Off-the-Beaten-Path Spring Break Destinations

For the Free Spirit: San Diego, CA

Best Airport: San Diego International Airport (SAN)

If you long for sun and sand but want to avoid spring break madness, head to San Diego instead! There are over 70 miles of cliffside beaches and bays to explore, plus plenty of attractions like zoos, theme parks and botanical gardens to keep your whole crew happy. The weather in San Diego is gorgeous in the spring, making it a fantastic time to view the city’s breathtaking wildflowers.

For the History Buff: Washington, D.C.

Best Airports: Reagan National Airport (DCA), Dulles International Airport (IAD), Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI)

As the nation’s capital, there is a long list of reasons why D.C. should be on your travel agenda — and spring is the perfect season to cross it off your list! Walking to D.C.’s various free museums and historical buildings is all the more enjoyable before the summer heat sets in. Get there in late March or early April and you might even catch the city’s famous Cherry Blossom Festival!

For the Nonstop Fun Lover: Austin, TX

Best Airport: Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS)

Austin is known as the Live Music Capital of the World^®, but this boot-strappy city boasts more than a famous music scene. Try a uniquely Austin experience like swimming in a naturally cool spring-fed pool or attending a rodeo. If you’re a foodie or a thrill seeker, you’ll love the world-class restaurants, bars and entertainment options on every block. Venture just outside of the city to discover outdoor adventures like ziplining and kayaking on Lake Travis.

For the Fresh Air Enthusiast: Denver, CO

Best Airport: Denver International Airport (DEN)

If you’re ready to get out of the house and strap on some outdoor gear, the Mile High City is your perfect spring break spot. The area offers stunning views of the Rocky Mountains and plenty of hiking, biking, skiing, bouldering and more. After a day of enjoying the crisp alpine air, descend back into town to explore bounteous breweries and local shops. Don’t forget to see a show at Red Rocks Amphitheatre to complete your Denver experience!

For the Music Fanatic: Nashville, TN

Best Airport: Nashville International Airport (BNA)

Music City is a must-visit if you have a soft spot for Americana. While country music fans will delight in the Grand Ole Opry, Ryman Auditorium and Country Music Hall of Fame, there are plenty of other iconic recording studios and attractions for those who prefer other genres. There are also tons of top-tier restaurants, honky-tonks and family-friendly fun to add to your itinerary. Whatever you do, be sure to try some Nashville hot chicken or a fluffy biscuit.

For the Artsy Foodie: New Orleans, LA

Best Airport: Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY)

New Orleans is so much more than Mardi Gras. Go to see the French influence, rich arts and culture scene, swamp tours and annual Jazz and Heritage Festival — stay for the world-famous food (we’re looking at you, Café du Monde beignets).

How to Make the Most of Your Spring Break

Now that you have some stellar spring break spots to choose from, it’s time to book that flight and pack those bags! To make planning your trip as seamless as possible, be sure to pick the airline that best suits your needs and maximizes your time exploring a new city.

For more travel inspiration, be sure to visit The Southwest Airlines Community Blog — and bon voyage!

2023-02-09T23:01:00

(BPT) – Potatoes are America’s favorite vegetable, and it’s easy to see why. They’re delicious, nutritious and affordable. But with so many options, deciding how to eat them can be tough. So why don’t you let your astrological sign guide you to the spuds you’ll love the most?

Aries (March 21-April 19)

Fire sign Aries loves spicy Cajun fries. Aries also rules energy levels, which means they know complex carbs like potatoes are our brain’s primary fuel and a key source of energy for our muscles.

Taurus (April 20-May 20)

Dependable Taurus craves the comfort of potatoes au gratin and splurges on the finest Gruyère cheese. As an earth sign, they know that potatoes are good for the planet, producing the most food with the least amount of water of any major crop.

Gemini (May 21-June 20)

Social butterfly Gemini has a killer potato salad recipe they love to share at parties. Naturally curious, Gemini appreciates the fun fact that potatoes have 3 grams of plant-based protein, more than any other commonly eaten vegetables except for dried beans.

Cancer (June 21-July 22)

Traditional, nostalgic Cancer is all about mashed potatoes, which bring back happy memories of family meals. Cancer also rules the stomach, so they love that the resistant starch in potatoes is beneficial for gut bacteria.

Leo (July 23-August 22)

Leo prefers the dramatic shape of the Hasselback potato, which brings flare to any plate. As the ruler of the heart, Leo also knows that skin-on potatoes rank highest in potassium among the 20 top-selling fruits and vegetables, which research suggests may reduce the risk of stroke and help maintain lower blood pressure.

Virgo (August 23-September 22)

Practical Virgo uses their own no-fail technique to roast enough potatoes for dinner plus more left over for bowls and burritos later in the week. Virgo also knows potatoes count toward the 2-3 servings of vegetables they meticulously eat daily.

Libra (September 23-October 22)

Symmetry-loving Libra appreciates the two matching halves of a baked potato sliced down the middle, but the number of potential topping choices can leave them feeling a bit indecisive! The Libra scales can also measure that a medium (5.3 ounce) skin-on potato provides nearly one-third of our daily Vitamin C.

Scorpio (October 23-November 21)

Scorpio has the patience to make the viral sensation 15-hour potato, which, like them, is crispy on the outside but soft on the inside. Made of tough stuff, Scorpio also likes that a medium, skin-on potato has 7% of their daily fiber.

Sagittarius (November 22-December 21)

Avid traveler Sagittarius is fond of Niçoise salad, with every bite of potatoes and tuna transporting them to the south of France. Since they’re always on the go, Sagittarius knows studies indicate potatoes may stave off hunger better than other sides like pasta, rice and bread.

Capricorn (December 22-January 19)

Ambitious Capricorn needs delicious, nutritious fuel to start their busy day, which is why they love hashbrowns. Ever budget-conscious, Capricorn also likes that potatoes deliver more nutrients per penny than most other vegetables.

Aquarius (January 20-February 18)

Nonconformist Aquarius isn’t content with a standard potato dish, instead preferring gnocchi paired with a bold sauce. They also like sharing the surprising fact that a medium skin-on potato has as much iron as a large egg or serving of roasted skin-on chicken (3 oz.).

Pisces (February 19-March 21)

Water sign Pisces loves the soothing warmth of potato soup, which they never make the same way twice, but always make enough to share with friends. Open to swimming in new directions, Pisces appreciates that potatoes are featured in some of the most healthy and popular diets, including Mediterranean, DASH and Flexitarian.

For more Potato Goodness or potato nutrition visit https://potatogoodness.com/potatoscopes/.

2023-02-09T16:25:00

(BPT) – With the rising cost of goods and signs of an impending recession, employees in all industries are worried about pay and job security. While the news is filled with headlines about “quiet quitting,” “rage applying” and “the Great Resignation,” not everyone is looking to jump ship during a time of economic uncertainty.

According to a research survey by Employment BOOST, a full-service resume writing, corporate outplacement and career services company, experienced workers are taking a more practical view than their younger, less experienced co-workers. Because they’ve been in the workforce longer, experienced workers may have already experienced an economic downturn during their career and know the benefit of staying put.

“You can’t control large-scale economic trends,” said James Philip, Founder and CEO of Heavy Hitter Holdings and Employment BOOST. “However, professionals can approach 2023 with a ‘new year, new me’ mindset and demonstrate their value to their team and business leaders to offset the chance of a layoff and make a case for a pay increase.”

To help you develop a growth mindset and prepare for a conversation about a raise, check out these three tips to safeguard your job and advocate for a raise during a recession.

1. Learn new skills

When you were hired, you came into your role with an existing set of skills necessary to perform your job. While your position may have strengthened those skills, professional development and continued education is the best way to safeguard your job and make a case for a pay bump.

Acquiring new skills isn’t as complicated as you may think. You’ve likely already developed a few new ones through work projects that required you to learn new procedures or carry out tasks outside your purview.

Search out informal learning opportunities at work. If you want to acquire new skills, ask your supervisor if there are any tools or technologies the company would like to integrate but lacks employees with the necessary knowledge or bandwidth to tackle.

You can also see if the business offers professional development courses like Employment BOOST’s Careerology platform or reimbursement for certifications that benefit your career and the company’s mission.

Through formal and informal learning opportunities, you advance your career at your current place of employment and set yourself up for a successful compensation conversation.

2. Make yourself an essential part of the company

A company is less likely to get rid of an employee who is essential to the business. This means that you’ll want to embed yourself into the fabric of the organization, so if layoffs occur, you’re less likely to end up without a job.

Of course, this is easier said than done. At a smaller company, you may wear multiple hats and you’ll have more face-to-face time with decision-makers. At a larger organization, you can get lost in a sea of colleagues or intimidated by office politics and bureaucracy. However, the key to making yourself indispensable is to take on additional duties that will make it much harder to fill your role if you were to leave.

Some ways you can make yourself an essential business member is to:

• Mentor or coach younger colleagues
• Show initiative by proposing new projects
• Help streamline workflows and processes
• Offer to help a colleague by taking a few responsibilities off their plate.

No matter what you decide to do, you want to show that you are a value-add to the business and that there would be a void to fill if you were to leave.

3. Prepare for the conversation

When you’re ready to talk with your manager or supervisor about a raise, make sure you prepare a pitch that frames a pay increase as a win for you and a win for the company.

Remember those skills you built and the extra duties you took on? Take stock of your contributions to the company beyond the scope of your official role. Make a list of the tasks, projects and initiatives you’ve spearheaded to show that you take your job seriously and want to grow and advance within your current organization. You can use these points as leverage for additional compensation.

Don’t go into the conversation without a number in mind. If you’re unsure what fair compensation for your title and responsibilities looks like, research the going rate for your position. Use this as a starting point for how much of a raise you’re seeking and to help you manage expectations for yourself and your boss.

Finally, approach the conversation with gratitude. Make it clear to your manager that you are grateful for your job and the opportunities it’s given you. Emphasize that you want to stay at the organization and want to advance your career within its structure. As part of that growth, you want your pay to reflect the scope of your work.

Using these three tips, you can safeguard your current job and make a strong case for a raise, even during economic uncertainty. To learn more about how you can grow your career and receive expert advice, visit EmploymentBOOST.com.