Longevity: At 102, Dr. Hedda Bolgar Is Still Helping Others.

February 2nd, 2012

Awhile ago, we shared an article on an Ohio Doctor still practicing at 100. It prompted us to wonder about the oldest person in the world still working.  In the midst of our search, we came across Dr. Hedda Bolgar, who is still practicing psychotherapy at the age of 102. And, according to Dr. Bolgar, is too busy with appointments FOUR days-a-week to retire any time soon.

But it’s not necessarily the age of Dr. Bolgar that was so intriguing, it’s her attitude on living life that truly inspired us.

While friends and family have suggested to Bolgar that maybe she should look into retiring, the spry and healthy 102-year-old has never considered it.

Why not? Because she chose a career that she loves, and most importantly, she lives for helping others.

Which brings us to Bolgar’s secret to life: LOVE.

As mentioned before, Bolgar loves helping others, she loves keeping active, and she loves living life anew everyday; all of which attribute to her waking up excited about working, even at 102.

Bolgar’s attitude has always been one of living in the present, and not letting things she cannot control, or have not happened, worry her. Which is precisely the reason Bolgar isn’t worried about retiring yet. Why let the thought of aging bother her, if the actual process of aging isn’t?  A mindset that friends say always keep Bolgar smiling, happy, and loving everyday of life as a brand new adventure.

“She keeps her optimism, her love of life, her vitality,” a friend said about Bolgar’s attitude towards life.

“She looks at this time as one of the best times in her life – and that amazes me.”

At any age, Bolgar’s attitude on life is a positive example for all of us. But, at 102, her message is truly inspiring: live, and love.

 

 

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Women: February Is Heart Health Month.

January 31st, 2012

Did you know the #1 cause of  death in women is heart disease? Not to scare you, by any means, but seeing as February is National Heart Health Month, it’s important to know cardiovascular wellness is an issue that should be taken seriously by everyone.

Not just men.

The good news about heart health, though, is that even simple lifestyle changes can go a long way in reducing your risk of heart disease and improving your health.

Here are five doctor approved tips to helping your heart health:

- Quit Smoking:

One of the biggest risk factors for heart disease is smoking. Smoking raises your blood pressure, lowers the oxygen levels in your blood, and raises your cholesterol. All three of these negative impacts from smoking increase your risk for heart disease, and even heart attacks. Conversely, studies show that people who quit see improvements in as little as 24 hours after quitting, with the long-term benefits continuing to help a quitter’s heart as far as 10-years down the road!

- Eat Healthier:

A healthy diet,  balanced with fruits and vegetables and fish is one of the best paths  to losing weight and improving heart health. Avoid fried foods when you can, as studies have shown the trans fat in fried food leads to a greater risk of heart failure.

- Drink in moderation:

Studies are beginning to reveal evidence that having a glass of red wine may, in fact, be good for you heart. However, too much alcohol on a daily basis can raise your blood pressure and lead to heart disease.

- Exercise:

Aerobic activities, or activities that raise your heart rate over 100 BPM (beats per minute) can help strengthen your heart and keep it in good shape. After all, your heart is your body’s biggest muscle! But, it doesn’t have to be a “Rocky” style 6-mile jog through the city to help your heart. Studies have shown that a brisk 30-minute walk each day can lead to better heart health.

- Stress Management:

Stress is one of the most common risk factors for heart disease in both men and women. Whether it’s work or home life, many of us experience stress on a daily basis. Unfortunately, stress also takes a toll on your physical well-being just as much as it mentally wears you out. But, coming to the conclusion that we all will experience stress at certain times in our lives, and finding ways to manage our stress and deal with it more properly can lead to better happiness and health!

 

 

 

 

 

 

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