Local and Sustainable

Recently I have been thinking about how important it is to buy local and sustainable products and support the local community and economy.
I learned that there is a community garden in the area and the produce goes to people and families in need. I think this is great!
I also learned that there is no longer a farmer's market in Clare :(

That's really too bad because people in this area could really use fresh, healthy, and maybe even organic products. It is really sad that Clare county was named the least healthy in all of Michigan!!

That concerns me.
I do think that there is so much that could be done to change that though and the community garden is a great start!
I was just reading about a town in Vermont that was struggling and found a way to not only survive but reinvented themselves has become a model for local,sustainable living. They have grown, created jobs, and helped their local economy!
I was inspired just reading about this town!
I know that many in this area are struggling but I truly believe that the same could happen in this area.
Eating locally and sustainably is not only healthy but contrary to some beliefs, it can be affordable, and it helps the local economy.
It's a win-win situation!!

Here is the link to a story about the town of Hardwick Vermont-
http://www.seventhgeneration.com/learn/blog/how-food-saved-town



If you would like find resources for local and sustainable living check out
www.localharvest.com
www.greenpeople.org

Cultivating A Gardening Habit

Discover the Health Benefits of Yard Work

(article from ABMP)

Feeling the need to exercise, clean up your diet, meditate?
Want to be more creative, get out and meet people, enjoy the outdoors and slow down? There's one activity in which you can accomplish all of these objectives: gardening!

Encouraging Exercise
Studies show that vigorous digging burns 500 calories an hour, weeding burns 210 calories, and mowing the lawn burns 400 calories. As a moderate exercise, gardening has been found to decrease the risk of heart disease and diabetes, and a study at the University of Arkansas found that gardening was almost as effective as weight lifting in reducing the risk for osteoporosis in women. So instead of taking that indoor aerobics class this summer, try mowing the lawn or planting an herb garden.
As with any exercise regimen, the key is to start at a comfortable pace and gradually work your way up to longer, more difficult activities. Your heart rate should be about the same as when you take a brisk walk.

Improving Your Diet
Gardening will also likely help you eat better. Research shows that people who grow gardens eat more vegetables and fruits than those who don't. Growing fresh herbs, even in a container on the deck or balcony, is another great way to add flavor and freshness to home-cooked meals and an incentive to try new recipes.

* Keep in mind that organic gardening with heirloom seeds, no chemicals or pesticides is the healthiest!

Boosting Your Social Life
Gardening can also be quite social. Whether at a garden club, a community garden, or an online forum, people love to share ideas, solve common problems, and connect through mutual interests.

Easing Stress
And finally, gardening is a great way to manage stress. Spending time outside and tuning in to the rhythms of nature, we're reminded to be patient, slow down, and breathe the fresh air. Whether growing flowers, vegetables, or herbs, a garden reminds us of our connection to life and the abundance that nature fo freely gives.

Hibernating is for the bears

With the onset of colder weather, shorter days, and snow covered streets, we eat more and exercise less, waiting for the spring thaw to get back in shape. Instead of having to make New Year's resolutions to lose holiday weight and join a health club, why not set goals to stay fit this winter?

Move Fitness Indoors
Winter is the perfect time to start a weight training program. When it's sunny and warm in summer, you'd rather be outside cycling or rock climbing. When it's snowing, why not lift weights for 30 minutes during lunch? Statistics show that more people suffer heart attacks in winter from shoveling snow, often because they're out of shape. With regular strength training, you'll be able to shovel that snow and get a head start with outdoor sports when spring comes around.

Walk Outside on Weekends
Going for a jog or walk during mid-day when the sun is high is a great time to get outside and catch a few rays. Be sure to dress warmly and drink ploenty of water. Dehydration is most common in colder months when you're less aware of fluid loss.

Take a Dance Class
Accept that invitation to the New Year's celebration or try a dance you've always wanted to learn. Just make sure while you're dancing, you're not hanging around the buffet table or the bar, and your waistline will thank you for it.

Rediscover Ice Skating
Whether it's on a frozen pond or at a rink, ice skating provides seasonal exercise opportunities and is especially good for the legs. And it's great fun, bringing out the kid in all of us.

Consider Snowshoeing
Snowshoeing is just a matter of strapping snowshoes to your boots and walking. Snowshoes make hiking trails and snowy city parks accessible.
Other fun winter activities include skiing, snowboarding, and water aerobics.

No matter what you choose to do be careful and most of all have fun!