Sober October is a popular health challenge where participants commit to avoiding alcohol for the entire month of October. Similar to Dry January, this movement has gained traction as more people seek to reevaluate their relationship with alcohol and explore the health benefits of temporary abstinence. Whether it’s part of a growing trend towards mindful drinking or simply a reset after months of indulgence, Sober October offers an opportunity to focus on personal wellness and moderation. Here’s a look at the potential benefits of taking a break from alcohol.

Improved Physical Health

  – Better Liver Function: The liver works hard to filter toxins from alcohol, and giving it a break helps it repair and regenerate. Studies show that even a short period of abstinence can reduce liver fat by up to 15-20%, reducing the risk of fatty liver disease.

  – Reduced Risk of Cardiovascular Issues: Alcohol can elevate blood pressure and increase the risk of heart disease. A month without alcohol can lower blood pressure and improve overall heart health.

  – Enhanced Immune System: Drinking can suppress the immune system, making it harder to fight off infections. A break from alcohol allows your immune system to function optimally, improving resistance to illness.

  – Better Sleep: Alcohol interferes with the body’s sleep cycle, leading to disrupted and lower-quality rest. Without it, many people find they sleep deeper and wake up more refreshed.

Mental and Emotional Clarity

  – Better Mental Health: Alcohol is a depressant, which can contribute to feelings of anxiety and depression over time. Reducing alcohol intake can help improve mood and reduce anxiety symptoms, leading to a clearer mind.

  – Enhanced Cognitive Function: Alcohol impairs cognitive function, memory and concentration. After a period of sobriety, many report clearer thinking and better mental focus.

Weight Loss and Better Nutrition

  – Lower Caloric Intake: Alcohol is calorie-dense and often consumed with high-calorie mixers or snacks. By eliminating alcohol, people often notice a reduction in their overall caloric intake, which can lead to weight loss.

Social and Lifestyle Benefits

  – Strengthening Relationships: Alcohol can sometimes create barriers in communication and deepen social divides. A month of sobriety can offer opportunities to connect with others more meaningfully.

  – Improved Productivity: Many find that without the fog of a hangover or the sluggishness associated with drinking, they are more productive and engaged in their daily lives. This includes being more present at work, at home, and in social interactions.

  – New Hobbies and Interests: Without alcohol, individuals often explore new activities or return to hobbies they may have neglected. This can lead to discovering new passions or reigniting old ones.

A Shift in Drinking Habits

  – Greater Mindfulness: After completing Sober October, some people realize they don’t need alcohol as often as they thought, leading to a more mindful approach to drinking. They may choose to drink less frequently or find healthier alternatives, like mocktails, to satisfy the social aspect of drinking.

  – Break from Dependency: For those who may feel their drinking habits are edging toward dependence, taking part in a month-long break can help reset their relationship with alcohol and reduce the risk of developing a harmful drinking pattern.

Sober October isn’t just about quitting alcohol for 31 days—it’s about reflecting on your habits, improving your health, and possibly resetting your relationship with alcohol. Whether you decide to continue abstaining, reduce your intake or return to your usual habits with a more mindful approach, Sober October offers a chance for positive change. The benefits, both physical and mental, can last long beyond the month itself, providing a foundation for healthier lifestyle choices in the future.

The post Christie Clinic: Sober October, The Benefits of Reducing Alcohol Consumption appeared first on .

Midwest Food Bank is collaborating with The Salvation Army and other nonprofit partners to deliver emergency supplies in Georgia, Florida, and other areas expected to be hit hardest. The coordinated efforts focus on providing clean water, ready-to-eat meals (MREs), and disaster relief kits.

In Georgia, Midwest Food Bank has already dispatched three semi-trucks filled with water and drinks to ensure that residents have access to clean drinking water as Hurricane Helene approaches. The organization is prepared to send more shipments as needed in the coming days.

In Florida, Midwest Food Bank is coordinating with state officials and local relief agencies to provide MREs, water, and other drinks to regions facing severe displacement and food insecurity due to the storm.

At its Disaster Relief Hub in Morton, Illinois, the organization is preparing food boxes and clean-up kits for families beginning the recovery process. These kits contain critical supplies to help those affected rebuild their lives after the storm’s destruction.

“Midwest Food Bank’s commitment to disaster relief means we are always prepared to respond swiftly in times of crisis,” said Christa Staley, Executive Director. “Our goal is to ease the burden by providing essential supplies like food, water, and clean-up tools, working with our partners to bring relief to those in need.”

Midwest Food Bank is urging the public to support their efforts through financial donations, which allow for a quick and efficient response. Those wishing to contribute can visit the organization’s website or text @MFB to 52014 to donate, with funds going directly toward disaster relief supplies and transportation costs.

Founded in 2003 on a farm in McLean County, Illinois, Midwest Food Bank has grown to become the largest food bank in the U.S., serving 23 states through 10 domestic locations and supporting international efforts in East Africa and Haiti.

For more information on how to support Midwest Food Bank’s disaster relief efforts, visit their website at midwestfoodbank.org.

The post Midwest Food Bank Mobilizes Disaster Relief Efforts Ahead of Hurricane Helene appeared first on .

Vaccinations are available for everyone aged six months and older, with appointments required to receive them at CUPHD. To schedule an appointment, residents can call 217-531-4317. While CUPHD accepts most insurance plans, no one will be turned away due to lack of insurance or being underinsured. However, those with Medicare are advised to visit a pharmacy or their primary care physician for vaccination, as CUPHD cannot bill Medicare.

COVID-19 Vaccine Update
As the virus that causes COVID-19 continues to evolve, the updated vaccine provides protection against the variants currently leading to infections and hospitalizations across the U.S. Vaccination not only helps reduce the risk of serious illness but also lowers the chance of developing Long COVID, a condition that can persist for months following an initial infection. Last season, those who received the 2023-2024 vaccine experienced improved protection against both illness and hospitalization.

Flu Vaccine Recommendation
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend that most people receive one flu vaccine dose per season. While the vaccine can be administered anytime flu viruses are circulating, the CDC suggests September and October as the best time to get vaccinated.

For those seeking additional vaccination sites, CUPHD encourages visiting Vaccines.gov to find nearby locations offering COVID-19 and flu shots. For more information on respiratory viruses, visit the CDC’s website at cdc.gov/respiratory-viruses.

Vaccination Information:

• Location: Champaign-Urbana Public Health District
• Appointments: Call 217-531-4317 to schedule
• Insurance: Most plans accepted, but no one turned away for lack of insurance (except Medicare, which requires visiting a pharmacy or physician)

The post Champaign-Urbana Public Health District Now Offering COVID-19 and Flu Vaccines for 2024-2025 Season appeared first on .

Overtraining can be a serious issue for athletes of all levels, leading to diminished performance, increased risk of injury, and long-term health problems. As an athletic trainer, it’s crucial to identify the signs of overtraining, implement strategies to prevent it, and understand how to effectively recover if it occurs.

Signs of Overtraining

Persistent Fatigue: One of the earliest and most common signs is feeling constantly tired, even after getting adequate rest. This fatigue can affect both physical and mental performance.

Decreased Performance: A noticeable decline in performance, such as slower times, reduced strength, or decreased endurance, is a red flag. This decline persists despite continuous training efforts.

Mood Changes: Overtraining can lead to irritability, anxiety, or depression. Athletes might also experience a lack of motivation or enthusiasm for training.

Sleep Disturbances: Insomnia or poor-quality sleep is often reported by those experiencing overtraining. Despite feeling exhausted, falling asleep or staying asleep becomes challenging.

Increased Injury Risk: Overtraining can weaken the body’s ability to recover, making athletes more susceptible to injuries such as stress fractures, tendonitis, or muscle strains.

Appetite Changes: Some athletes may experience a decrease in appetite, while others may overeat, both of which can signal that the body is struggling to recover.

Elevated Resting Heart Rate: An unusually high resting heart rate can indicate that the body is under stress and not fully recovering between training sessions.

Preventing Overtraining

Periodization of Training: Structure training programs with cycles of varying intensity and volume. Include periods of rest and active recovery to allow the body to adapt and strengthen.

Listen to Your Body: Encourage athletes to communicate how they’re feeling. Adjust training based on fatigue levels, soreness, and overall well-being.

Adequate Nutrition and Hydration: Ensure that athletes are consuming enough calories and nutrients to support their energy expenditure. Proper hydration is also essential for recovery and performance.

Rest and Recovery: Incorporate rest days into the training schedule. Use techniques such as foam rolling, stretching, and massage to aid recovery. Sleep is vital; athletes should aim for at least 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night.

Cross-Training: Incorporating different types of exercises can prevent the repetitive stress that leads to overtraining. This also helps to balance the use of different muscle groups.

Mental Health Support: Encourage mindfulness practices, stress management techniques, and, if needed, seek support from mental health professionals. Mental recovery is just as important as physical recovery.

Recovering from Overtraining

Immediate Rest: As soon as overtraining is suspected, reduce or completely stop physical activity. Allow the body to rest for several days or even weeks, depending on the severity of the symptoms.

Gradual Return to Training: Once symptoms have subsided, athletes should slowly reintroduce physical activity. Start with low-intensity exercises and gradually increase the volume and intensity.

Nutrition and Hydration: Focus on a diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to help the body recover. Staying hydrated will also support the recovery process.

Reassess Training Plan: After recovery, analyze the factors that led to overtraining and modify the training plan to prevent recurrence. Ensure the plan includes adequate rest, variation in intensity, and time for recovery.

Monitor Progress: Keep a close eye on the athlete’s physical and mental state as they return to training. Regularly check in to ensure they’re not slipping back into overtraining.

Overtraining is a serious condition that can hinder an athlete’s progress and lead to long-term health issues. By recognizing the signs early, taking preventive measures, and knowing how to recover properly, athletes can maintain their performance and overall well-being. As an athletic trainer, it’s essential to educate athletes and coaches on the importance of balanced training and recovery to ensure long-term success and health in sports.

The post Christie Clinic: Recognizing, Preventing, and Recovering from Overtraining  appeared first on .

For Younger Students or First-Time School-Goers:

• Teach them their phone number, address, how to contact their parents at work, a trusted adult’s contact information, and how to dial 911.
• Instruct them never to talk to strangers or accept rides from someone they don’t know.

For Students Walking to School:

• Always walk on the sidewalk. If no sidewalk is available, walk facing traffic.
• Stop and look left, right, and left again before crossing the street.
• Cross streets at corners, obey traffic signals, and use crosswalks.
• Never run into the street or cross between parked cars.

For Students Taking the Bus:

• Arrive at the bus stop early and stand away from the curb.
• Board the bus only after it has come to a complete stop and the driver or attendant has instructed them to get on.
• Always stay in clear view of the bus driver and never walk behind the bus.

For Students Riding Bikes to School:

• Always wear a helmet.
• Ride on the right side of the road, in the same direction as traffic.

For Parents Driving Their Children to School:

• Ensure children always wear a seat belt. Younger children should use car seats or booster seats until the lap-shoulder belt fits properly (typically for children ages 8-12 and over 4’9”) and ride in the back seat until at least 13 years old.

For Teenagers Driving to School:

• Make sure they use seat belts.
• Prohibit cell phone use for texting or calls and avoid eating or drinking while driving.

For Parents Considering Cell Phones for Their Students:

• Download the free Red Cross First Aid and Emergency apps to provide first aid tips for common emergencies and real-time weather alerts. Find the apps by searching for the American Red Cross in smartphone app stores or visiting redcross.org/apps.

For Students Joining Sports Teams:

• Ensure they wear protective gear such as helmets and pads.
• Encourage them to warm up and cool down properly.
• Instruct them to be mindful of others.
• Make sure they know the location of the nearest first aid kit and AED.

Back-to-School Checklist for Drivers:

• Slow down.
• Yellow flashing lights on a school bus indicate it is preparing to stop. Red flashing lights and an extended stop sign mean the bus is stopped and children are boarding or exiting.
• Motorists must stop when they are behind a bus, meeting the bus, or approaching an intersection where a bus is stopped.
• Motorists traveling alongside a school bus must stop until the red lights have stopped flashing, the stop arm is withdrawn, and all children have reached safety. This rule applies to both two and four-lane highways.
• If physical barriers such as grassy medians, guide rails, or concrete median barriers separate oncoming traffic from the bus, motorists in the opposing lanes may proceed without stopping. However, do not proceed until all children have reached a place of safety.

By following these guidelines, the American Red Cross aims to keep students safe as they return to school.

The post American Red Cross Offers Back-to-School Safety Checklist appeared first on .

fred@mahometnews.com

Retirement is a word that is easier for some people to define than to put into practice.

It can occur the literal way it is defined in the Webster Dictionary, “withdrawal from one’s occupation or position or from active working life.”

It can happen when a person reaches a certain age or has a specified number of years on the job.

That method doesn’t work for everyone. Some folks prefer to enter their retirement years at a slower pace, either by taking ample time to reduce their workload or maybe replacing one job with another that is less stressful or has fewer hours.

Oakwood’s Lynn Anderson is taking a circuitous route to having more leisure time in her life.

A central Illinois coaching icon for the past 47 years, Anderson is taking the second step in reducing her workload.

The first occurred when she retired as a full-time teacher eight years ago. The second occurred on July 29, when she submitted her resignation as the Comets’ volleyball head coach, a position she held for the past 36 seasons.

That doesn’t mean the person who has coached a sport at Oakwood in parts of six decades is saying goodbye.

“If the (next) coach wants me and if the (school) board approves it, I’ve asked to be a volunteer coach,” Anderson said.

“I’m giving up the title (of head coach), but I’m not giving up the program.”

It wasn’t the first time that Anderson considered relinquishing the reigns of the program that she directed to a state tournament appearance in 2000.

She had what she thought would be a perfect coaching replacement in 2014. Former Comet Any (Martin) Johnson was graduating from Eastern Illinois University, where she played volleyball all four years.

“She was my first option,” Anderson said.

When she contacted her former player, Anderson learned that Johnson wanted an elementary school teaching position. None were available in the Oakwood district when they spoke.

“The next day (following their conversation), a position opened up here,” Anderson recalled.

She contacted Johnson immediately to share the new development.

“She said she had just committed to Westville,” Anderson said.

Johnson was honored at the faith Anderson had in her coaching potential.

“Honestly, going through college, I had my eye on Oakwood,” Johnson said. “That was my goal. I was raised and graduated from there.”

And yet – despite having Anderson as her coach in three sports all four years she attended Oakwood High School – Johnson declined the overture.

“It was tempting,” Johnson said, “because I had such a great experience there.

“It came down to Westville beat Oakwood to it (with an offer).”

In truth, it came down to more than that one fact.

Johnson’s decision was based on being tutored and mentored by a high school coach whose emphasis was not simply on the won-loss record, but in helping teen-agers prepare for their futures while instilling values and ethics that would last a lifetime.

“You could talk to her about anything,” Johnson said. “Everyone who knew her would say that. During high school, I felt close to her.

“After high school, I was still drawn to her, still wanted to be in contact with her and I still look up to her (now), 14 years after I graduated from Oakwood.”

A coach who preached commitment and setting an example, not only did not try to change Johnson’s mind, she also didn’t let it affect their friendship.

“She didn’t pressure me,” Johnson said, “and as I got into Westville and got the head coaching position (in volleyball), she still mentored me.

“There were never any negative feelings. She makes you feel so comfortable.”

Anderson remembers the conversation with Johnson about seeking the Oakwood position.

“She was very respectful and said, ‘I can’t do that to Westville,’” Anderson said. “I understood.

“That was my first chance to try and hand it (volleyball program) over to someone who would be good for the program.

“I wasn’t going to turn it over to anybody.”

That’s why Anderson continued coaching – continued mentoring, continued encouraging – the Oakwood program.

Seth Miller, Westville’s superintendent, can relate to the feelings of both Anderson and Johnson.

He is a former Oakwood teacher and coach and was on staff when the volleyball team posted three consecutive 20-win seasons and reached the IHSA state tournament with a still-standing school-record season win total of 29.

“Juice (Anderson’s nickname since the 1970s) was good at giving girls the chance to mature and grow into young women,” Miller said. “She enjoyed good sportsmanship, saying please and thank you more than the wins and losses, and did a good job keeping the girls rooted.

“I was impressed with how many former players had deep bonds and appreciation for her. It had a lot to do with her ability to help young girls mature and learn what it means to be part of a team.”

Zach Steele’s first year as the Oakwood athletic director – 2023-24 – turned out to be Anderson’s final year in charge of a volleyball program that had three different head coaches in a three-year span before she was hired prior to the 1988 campaign.

She followed Terry Goodner (1985), Bill Blair (1986) and John Keener (1987).

Steele quickly learned that Anderson’s legendary status was no myth.

They had an instant connection.

Steele grew up in Robinson, about a 20-minute trip from Marshall, where Anderson was raised on a farm.

Though she had worked with a variety of ADs over the years, Anderson was receptive to the newcomer.

“She was very welcoming,” Steele said, “very warm and positive. She never thought she was above anyone else.

“She was someone who handled things very professionally. She had been through many ADs, but treated me as an equal. She always ran things by me.”

Anderson was a visible presence as Steele was indoctrinating himself with the district.

“I started in my office in June (2023), and wherever I went, I’d see Juice,” Steele said, “whether it was in the gym with volleyball, the weight room with volleyball, walking food into the teacher’s lounge or I’d seeing her mowing the grounds.”

As Steele sorted through the four applicants who were interviewed for the vacant volleyball job, he relied on more than his feelings to make a decision that will be announced soon.

“I didn’t want to hire someone without her blessing,” he said, referring to Anderson.

For her part, Anderson encountered an unexpected response after word of her resignation began circulating.

“I didn’t think people would think something was wrong with me physically,” she said. “There is nothing (wrong) that I know of.”

What there is would be a coach handling things her way.

“It’s the best thing for the girls,” Anderson said. “I want someone younger and fresher.

“I am privileged to make the choice on my own without any outside influences. Every year has been enjoyable with the kids, whether we were winning or losing.

“There were more ups than downs. It was a great journey and I enjoyed it immensely.”

Anderson’s twin daughters – Candy King and Carrie Lutz – didn’t have advance notice of the impending retirement. That news was reserved for Steele and was subsequently shared with the returning Oakwood players following a round-robin scrimmage event at Seeger, Ind. on Monday (July 29).

Her daughters, however, were not shocked by the announcement.

“It didn’t catch me so off-guard that I wished I had been sitting down,” King said. “I hope people understand it was a very thoughtful decision.”

Lutz said the girls had laughingly talked in the past about their mom’s longevity and commitment.

“For a while, we wondered why she stayed in the game so long,” Lutz said. “We joked with her that she didn’t know what else to do.”

Without much searching, however, they knew the answer as to why.

“It helps keep her active and she has taken pride in the relationships,” Lutz said. “Not that she doesn’t enjoy winning, but it doesn’t motivate her like it does for other people.

“She finds so much energy from the younger generation to keep her going. Lean into your strengths and you can make a real impact.”

In true twin fashion, King echoed many of the same sentiments in a separate interview.

“Those that you impact will impact you as well,” King said.

Lynn Anderson also had an acceptance of input from others. She never felt like all of the responsibility was on her.

“So many leaders feel like they have to know it all,” Lutz said. “She was good at uniting people. It’s important when a leader has the perspective that they are in command, but have others who can help.

“For her, it was to know your strengths, stay in your lane and honor other folks whose strengths can help you succeed.”

One of those individuals was Dan Drye, the Armstrong-Potomac volleyball head coach as Candy and Carrie were helping bring the Oakwood High School program into statewide prominence.

“From eighth grade, we looked to him to fine-tune our technique,” Lutz said.

***

In her next-to-last regular-season match – Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2023 at Danville Schlarman Academy – Anderson earned her 400^th career victory with a 25-7, 25-13 sweep.

It’s a milestone she downplays.

“Some coaches reach that in 15 years,” she said.

Schools can now play 35 matches in the regular season, but when Anderson was a rookie coach, her teams didn’t play more than 18 matches until her sixth year on the sidelines.

For aspiring coaches, Anderson’s legacy will be hard to duplicate and virtually impossible to exceed.

As her 36-year head coaching tenure in volleyball ends, she will continue handling the Comets’ girls’ track and field team next spring. The upcoming track season will be her 47^th with the sport at Oakwood, her 35^th overall as head coach and her 33^rd year in a row as the head coach.

Her commitment to track and field hasn’t yet exceeded her time with girls’ basketball. Anderson has been involved with that sport for 48 years, two as the head coach, 43 as an assistant and three as a stat-keeper … with the possibility of that stat-keeper role growing larger the 2024-25 season begins in November.

In 36 of her years at Oakwood, Anderson coached or was involved with three sports.

Regardless of the sport, the foundation of Anderson’s philosophy remained unchanged.

“Each year was a different experience, making the chemistry work,” she said. “It wasn’t the wins or losses, but preparing them for the future, growing as a person, committing to being on time and working with people they don’t necessarily run with.”

Her emphasis was obvious even for someone like Steele, who has only known Anderson for little more than a year.

“She always strived to do her best to win, but she deeply cared for her players and always tried to instill life lessons to make them better people,” Steele said.

Those points aren’t soon forgotten.

“She builds relationships and makes people feel comfortable,” Johnson said. “She’d take care of everyone. At our track meets, she’d have sandwiches and snacks.

“She sends Christmas cards and is very thoughtful. I keep all the letters she has written me. She is a great role model and mentor.”

As she became a mother – her daughters are now ages 5, 3 and 1 – Johnson relinquished her coaching duties to spend more time with family. She better understands that commitment Anderson made.

“I appreciate what she did for us,” Johnson said. “She had her daughters and sacrificed a lot of things for the community and the school.”

King said that both she and her sister understood their mom’s priorities.

“We never doubted how much she loved us,” King said, “but there were times she chose work over a volleyball match when we were (playing) in college.

“She’s a worker.”

Is there another active coach – or one who has not yet achieved that status – who one day will match the legacy of Anderson, who is approaching nearly a half-century of involvement in extra-curriculars at Oakwood?

Miller is willing to speculate.

“Juice represents the ‘old guard,’” Miller said. “She is reflective of a time we saw institutional pillars associated with a school, and what it meant.

“The old-guard people embodied that as part of their identity as well as their profession. It’s a dying breed who do it for five years, let alone 10 or 15 years.

“Has the time passed for 10- and 20-year coaches? I sure hope not, but we don’t see it much anymore. Juice has been in that mold for decades and should be commended and celebrated. I hope it is inspiring to young coaches and young professionals.”

During her tenure, Anderson has witnessed changes in volleyball beyond a new position – the libero – and rules that have been altered over the years.

“One of the major things is you can’t be as strict as you used to be,” Anderson said. “You used to have to run a mile in under 8 minutes to be on the team.

“Back in the day, we did a lot of conditioning.”

Besides track, Anderson is keeping two of her other jobs at Oakwood during the 2024-25 school year. She will teach two health classes and remain in place as the junior class sponsor.

She doesn’t expect to continue the pattern she followed as she left behind her full-time teaching job and the volleyball position.

“I didn’t want to end it all at once,” she said, “but it won’t be seven or eight years between for each (remaining) one. I’ll know when it is time. This is perfect for gradually going out.”

Miller is pleased that Anderson has more time to impact students in her Vermilion County school of approximately 300 students.

“She’s funny, she’s enthusiastic and she is still committed to Oakwood,” Miller said. “Because of how passionate she is for the kids, she is still what the school needs.

“She is so good at working with young people. Sometimes parents get caught up in the tactical part of coaching and don’t recognize the impact and influences.”

Steele is also appreciative of Anderson’s willingness to remain active at Oakwood.

“I told her, ‘Anything you can give us, we will take,’” he said. “The girls love her, the people in the school love her.

“She has run a strong, clean program and does the little things that it’s hard to find people to do. We are grateful she is still around.”

This season’s volleyball opener for Oakwood will be on Monday (Aug. 26) at home against LeRoy.

Volunteer coach Anderson won’t overstep her authority.

“I’ve told Zach not to worry,” Anderson said. “I won’t interfere.

“I will be there as a support system, not as someone who wants to run the show.”

As for how she will remember her former coach, Johnson has a simple – yet appropriate – response.

“She’s a super-hero,” Johnson said.

King seconded that notion and added, “Mom is Oakwood.”

The post Lynn Anderson Reflects on 47 Years at Oakwood: Retirement Doesn’t Mean Goodbye appeared first on .

August marks Psoriasis Awareness Month, a crucial time dedicated to shedding light on this chronic autoimmune disease that affects millions of individuals worldwide. This month serves as an opportunity to increase understanding and offer support to those living with psoriasis.

Psoriasis is a complex and often misunderstood condition characterized by the rapid buildup of skin cells, leading to red, scaly patches that can be itchy, painful, and sometimes debilitating. Beyond the physical symptoms, psoriasis can impact an individual’s mental and emotional well-being, affecting self-esteem and quality of life.

Increasing awareness about the nature of psoriasis, its triggers, and its impact on individuals’ lives is crucial in reducing stigma and fostering empathy. Understanding that psoriasis is not merely a skin condition, but an immune-mediated disease, helps create a more supportive environment for those affected.

Psoriasis affects people differently, both in terms of the severity of symptoms and the emotional toll it can take. Encouraging open conversations about these experiences promotes empathy and understanding among peers, healthcare providers, and the community at large.

While there’s no cure for psoriasis, various treatment options, including topical treatments, phototherapy, systemic medications, and biologic therapies, can effectively manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Raising awareness about available treatments and advocating for access to healthcare resources is critical for individuals seeking relief from psoriasis.

Support groups, online forums, and outreach programs are available and offer a platform for individuals to connect, share experiences, and find encouragement, thereby reducing feelings of isolation and providing valuable emotional support.

Psoriasis Awareness Month also encourages ongoing research and innovation in understanding the underlying causes of psoriasis and developing more effective treatments. Support for scientific advancements and funding for research initiatives play a crucial role in improving the lives of individuals affected by this condition.

By increasing awareness, fostering empathy, promoting access to treatment, and encouraging research, Psoriasis Awareness Month strives to create a more compassionate and informed society, ultimately improving the lives of individuals affected by psoriasis.

The post Christie Clinic: August Marks Psoriasis Awareness Month appeared first on .

But Mahomet’s Cinda Bauman hopes to help children find empathy as they learn to process their emotions with her series of middle-grade books, “Hope & Horses.”

Bauman’s passion for writing children’s books about mental health began with her debut novel, “Shuffle.” 

“I love creating characters and writing dialogues,” she said. “I wanted to evoke strong emotions for my characters, which led me to write about mental health.”

Writing about mental health for children comes with challenges, Bauman noted. 

“The hardest part was balancing the seriousness of the issues with making sure the story wasn’t too depressing. It took several rewrites to ensure the story ended in a way that gave both the characters and readers a sense of hope for the future,” she said.

Bauman’s hope for her readers is that they can identify with her characters’ struggles and feel less alone. 

Approaching the nuances of how mental health issues can affect everyone in the family, Bauman wrote her first book, “Shuffle” to approach the realities of growing up with a parent bipolar disorder. 

Inspired by an episode of “ER”, Bauman crafted the main character’s struggles to shed light on the stigma surrounding mental health and its impact on individuals and their families. 

“I hope readers understand that things are not always as they seem and that everyone is fighting their own battles,” Bauman said. “I want them to be mindful of the words they use and to be empathetic towards others’ struggles. Additionally, I hope they realize that seeking help and support is a sign of strength and that they don’t have to face their challenges alone.”

After retiring and moving to Mahomet from Urbana, Bauman found more time to hone her craft, recently publishing the second book in the series, “Fetch”.

In “Fetch,” the second book of the series, Bauman addresses anxiety and the impact of a secret from the past on a young girl named Frankie. “Even though I’ve never experienced severe anxiety with panic attacks, I’ve always been shy and very nervous in new situations,” Bauman shared. Her personal experiences, coupled with extensive research and conversations with those affected by anxiety, helped her authentically portray Frankie’s struggles.

“Tweens’ emotions are on a hormonal rollercoaster even without anxiety, so my goal was to tap into the feeling of a normal amount of embarrassment and fear for this age group, amplified by ten,” Bauman said.

Writing about mental health for children comes with its challenges, Bauman noted. 

“The hardest part was balancing the seriousness of the issues with making sure the story wasn’t too depressing,” she said. “I had to include scenes that allowed the characters to have some fun and be typical pre-teens without downplaying the severity of their situations.”

That fun comes not only in friendship and community but also by way of experiences with horses.

“As a teenager, I was feeling really upset when I saw a gorgeous black horse in a pasture,” Bauman remembers. “When I reached the fence, the horse ran towards me, its tail and mane flowing in the wind like a scene from a movie. It stopped at the fence and stood looking at me, as if it understood everything I was feeling, and was just willing to hang out with me for a while. 

“I wanted my characters to have a friend to talk to, even when they weren’t ready to talk to people.”

Bauman has ambitious plans for the future. 

The upcoming book in the series, “Gallop,” centers on Eli, a boy grappling with anger and loss following his parents’ divorce. 

“To make matters worse, his mom thought a fresh start would help them both heal, so she moved them from the city where he grew up to a rural town where he had no friends and no plans to make any,” Bauman revealed. 

Through his friendship with Kylie and his experiences with horses, Eli learns to manage his anger and find a way to keep horseback riding, which becomes a crucial outlet for him.

“Eli’s story explores how allowing new people and interests into your life can help you forgive those who have caused you pain,” Bauman said.

More “free” time during retirement has helped Bauman to find her own voice, too. Not just through the written word, but also visual art.

With a newfound love for cut-paper sculpture illustrations, Bauman created the covers for the “Hope & Horses” series. 

“There’s nothing I would love more than to supplement my retirement with writing and creating art,” she said. “It would be a blessing to earn money from something I’ve dreamed of and now have time and energy to pursue.”

But that’s not all Bauman dreams of. 

“I also would love to hear from young readers who have found something in my books impacted their lives in a positive way or inspired them to say their first prayer.”

It’s unclear whether or not the “Hope & Horse” series has more installments, but Bauman is ready to tell more stories. 

“I have several picture book manuscripts from over the years,” she said. 

“I’ve been thinking about writing another middle-grade novel series set in the South Carolina Lowcountry, my favorite vacation spot.”

The post Empathy and Horses: Cinda Bauman’s Mission to Help Pre-Teens Navigate Mental Health appeared first on .

If participants hike five new trails each month, they’ll be entered to win prizes.

To track their progress, hikers can use a trail tracker available on the District’s website, champaignforests.org. Participants are encouraged to take selfies beside trail signs to document their journeys and submit these photos for contest entry.

The contest aims to motivate hikers to explore different trails rather than revisiting their usual favorites.

Last year, the District celebrated its 75th anniversary with a promotion encouraging residents to hike 75 miles between Memorial Day and Labor Day. This year’s challenge builds on that success, prompting even seasoned hikers to explore new paths.

What you need to do:

• Register for the Trails Challenge
• Download the Trails Tracker sheet
• Take a picture at the “Selfie Spot” marker on each trail
• Add your selfie to the Trails Tracker sheet and if you have visited 5 or more trails, email to trails@ccfpd.org by the end of each month. 

The Forest Preserve District’s extensive network of trails offers a variety of options for hikers:

Lake of the Woods Forest Preserve:

• Rayburn Purnell (.5 miles)
• Stidham Woods Trail (.53 miles)
• Floodplain Trail (.21 miles)
• Museum Meander Trail (.43 miles)
• Bike Trail (3.3 miles)
• Buffalo Trace Circuit Trails (5.0 miles)

Heron View Forest Preserve:

• Sycamore Trail (1.4 miles)

Homer Lake Forest Preserve:

• Timberdoodle Trail (1.2 miles)
• Maple Sugar Grove (.1 miles)
• Sand Beach Cove Trail (.68 miles)
• Flicker Woods Trail (.94 miles)
• Oak Ridge Trail (1.9 miles)
• West Lake Trail (4.6 miles)
• North Trail (.3 miles)
• Collins Pond Trail (.82 miles)
• Bluebell Trail (.60 miles)
• PawPaw Trail (.15 miles)

Middle Fork River Forest Preserve:

• Oak Burl Trail (2.2 miles)
• Prairie View Trail (.80 miles)
• Midland Trail (1.4 miles)
• South Loop Trail (2.2 miles)
• Point Pleasant (2.2 miles)
• Old Miner’s Trail (1.5 miles)
• North Waterfowl Trail (1.2 miles)

Kickapoo Rail Trail:

• Urbana to 7th St., St. Joseph (7.0 miles)
• Ogden (1.5 miles)

River Bend Forest Preserve:

• Dogleg Loop (1.3 miles)
• Woodland Trail (1.2 miles)

Sangamon River Forest Preserve:

• Wildcat Slough (.5 miles)
• Prairie Trail (.9 miles)
• Bottomland Trail (.8 miles)

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a fun way to stay active, the Champaign County Forest Preserve District’s new challenge offers an excellent opportunity to explore the beauty of local nature trails. For more information and to start your hiking journey, visit champaignforests.org.

The post Champaign County Forest Preserve District Launches New Hiking Challenge appeared first on .

Break out the sunscreen! July is dedicated to UV Safety Month, a time to raise awareness about the
harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation and promote strategies for preventing skin damage and
reducing the risk of skin cancer caused by excessive sun exposure.

The sun emits various types of radiation, including UVA and UVB rays, both of which can have
detrimental effects on the skin. Overexposure to these rays can lead to sunburn, premature aging, and
an increased risk of developing skin cancer, including melanoma, the most severe form of skin cancer.
The main focus of UV Safety Month is education. It aims to inform individuals about the importance of
sun protection and the potential risks associated with prolonged sun exposure. Understanding the
dangers of UV radiation and its cumulative effects on skin health encourages proactive measures to
minimize sun damage.

One of the key messages during this observance is the adoption of sun-safe practices. These include
seeking shade during peak sun hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV rays are the
strongest. Wearing protective clothing, such as long sleeves, hats, and sunglasses with UV protection,
provides an additional barrier against harmful rays.

Moreover, the consistent use of broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher is emphasized.
Applying sunscreen generously and reapplying it every two hours, or more frequently if swimming or
sweating, forms a crucial part of a sun protection regimen. Sunscreen should be used year-round, as UV
rays can penetrate clouds and cause skin damage even on cloudy days.

UV Safety Month also serves as a reminder to protect vulnerable areas of the body that are often
overlooked, such as the lips, ears, back of the neck, and scalp. These areas are susceptible to sunburn
and skin cancer and require adequate protection.

The observance encourages individuals to perform regular skin checks and be vigilant about any changes
in moles, freckles, or skin spots. Early detection of unusual changes in the skin can lead to prompt
medical attention, potentially preventing the progression of skin cancer.

UV Safety Month advocates for the importance of UV safety beyond personal habits. It prompts
communities, workplaces, and schools to implement sun safety policies and provide access to shaded
areas, sun-protective clothing, and sunscreen to promote a sun-smart environment.

The post Christie Clinic: Sun Safety for Summer: Tips to Avoid Skin Damage and CancerChristie Clinic: appeared first on .