Author Archives: Edward Brownlee

$15-Billion VA Budget Shortfall

Posted on by

Congress must immediately fund the looming $15-billion VA budget shortfall

This shortfall is primarily due to an increase in military veterans using VA services, driven by the PACT Act, which expanded eligibility for VA health care and benefits. The VA expects a $3 billion shortfall for the rest of this year and a $12 billion shortfall for fiscal 2025.

Multiple veterans service organizations gathered in the nation’s capital to draw attention to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs’ massive budget shortfall and call on Congress to pass before Sept. 20 supplemental legislation in what is expected to be a government budget stopgap continuing resolution.

Earlier this week, Military.com reported that in addition to a $3 billion shortfall for the rest of the fiscal year,

VA officials have confirmed they are asking Congress “to include an extra $12 billion for the department’s 2025 medical budget in the upcoming stopgap spending measure –  which must be passed into law by the end of the month – to ensure outreach to veterans and growth of the system can continue apace without compromising wait times and staffing levels.”

Veteran organizations called for immediate passage of supplemental funding legislation authored by Ohio U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown and California U.S. Rep. Mike Garcia.

“This financial crisis will affect disability compensation, caregiver compensation, community care payouts, everything,” American Legion Legislative Director Julia Mathis said. “We’re calling on Congress to immediately pass the legislation offered up by Senator Brown and Congressman Garcia. Every day we get closer to September 20 is another 24 hours of uncertainty for thousands of veterans whose financial lives depend on it.

“Every member of Congress has a moral obligation to protect these crucial benefits that our nation’s veterans have earned through their service to our great nation.”

Gratitude is a Powerful Emotion

Posted on by

Gratitude is a powerful emotion and mindset that has been extensively studied for its positive effects on well-being and health.

Gratitude is about recognizing the good and appreciating what you have in your life. It’s means everyday, thinking, believing and saying, “Today, I’m thankful and grateful.”

Key insights from recent gratitude research found:

Neuroscience of Gratitude: Gratitude activates brain regions associated with dopamine and serotonin, the neurotransmitters responsible for happiness. This activation can lead to improved mood and overall well-being.

Psychological Benefits: Practicing gratitude can enhance mental health by reducing stress, anxiety, and depression. It also promotes resilience and strengthens social relationships.

Physical Health: Grateful individuals tend to have stronger immune systems, lower blood pressure, and better sleep quality.

Social and Emotional Well-being: Gratitude fosters positive emotions, enhances life satisfaction, and boosts self-esteem. It also encourages prosocial behavior, which can improve relationships and social bonds.

Practical Applications: Simple practices like keeping a gratitude journal, writing gratitude letters, or regularly reflecting on things you’re thankful for can significantly enhance your happiness and life satisfaction.

There is always a reason to be grateful!

 

 

 

7 HABITS OF A GRATEFUL ATHLETE

Posted on by

7 HABITS OF A GRATEFUL ATHLETE by Brian Smith published by Athletes in Action

Studies show that people who practice gratitude are generally more happy, healthy, and optimistic about life.

Athlete who practice gratitude have better results during practice, coaching and in the arena of competition.

There are many reasons athletes specifically have to be grateful. Yet, it can be hard to practice gratitude in the midst of the daily grind of our sport. Our ability to be grateful often ebbs and flows with the circumstances in front of us.

Gratitude is like a muscle—it gets stronger if we consistently give it attention and push it beyond it’s level of comfort. Conversely, if we fail to exercise it consistently, our ability to be thankful atrophies.

Here are seven habits of thankful athletes, mental choices that athletes can incorporate into their daily lives to grow and maintain their gratitude “muscles.”

GRATEFUL ATHLETES TAKE TIME TO SOAK IN THE MOMENT

Before a practice or competition, they stop, take a deep breath, and make it a point to appreciate what they are about to engage in. Who else on this earth gets to play a game they love in front of fans who cheer them on in the process?

Is there pressure involved in that? Sure. But grateful athletes make it a habit to pause and enjoy, if only for a moment, the unique opportunity they get to experience.

GRATEFUL ATHLETES :
> TAKE TIME TO SOAK IN THE MOMENT
> RECOGNIZE PEOPLE WHO GO UNNOTICED
> FIGHT AGAINST ENTITLEMENT
> ARE COACHABLE
> LOOK FOR SILVER LININGS
> JOY IS NOT CONDITIONAL
> RECOGNIZE EXCELLENCE IN THEIR OPPONENT

GRATEFUL ATHLETES RECOGNIZE PEOPLE WHO GO UNNOTICED

They shake the hand the of maintenance worker who helps cut the grassy field that they are about to tear up with their cleats or the janitor who mops the floor so their feet won’t slide on the dust. They write their athletic trainer a thank you note for taping them up, helping them rehab, or stretching them out before practice. They give a hug to the die-hard fan that is at every game and cheers for his/her team regardless of the outcome.

GRATEFUL ATHLETES FIGHT AGAINST ENTITLEMENT

They recognize every blessing they receive as a gift they are not entitled to. Entitlement stands in direct opposition to gratitude.

Per diem money on a road trip. New shoes. New gear. Laundry being done on their behalf. Water or Gatorade received from a trainer. Tutors helping them pass their classes. Teachers giving them grace because of their travel schedule.

Grateful athletes fight against the “I deserve” mentality that is so pervasive in our culture by thanking the giver of these gifts and frequently checking the posture of their heart.

GRATEFUL ATHLETES ARE COACHABLE

They listen to advice and instruction from their coaches and, when appropriate, from their fellow teammates. They realize they do not have all of the answers. Even if they disagree with input that is given, it will not keep them from at least testing it out on the field. Grateful athletes have an appreciation of the authority they currently sit under and a desire to soak up any knowledge given to them.

GRATITUDE IS LIKE A MUSCLE—IT GETS STRONGER IF WE CONSISTENTLY GIVE IT ATTENTION AND PUSH IT BEYOND ITS LEVEL OF COMFORT.

GRATEFUL ATHLETES LOOK FOR SILVER LININGS

They understand that life is not always going to be rainbows and butterflies. There will be hardships in the form of injuries, losses, poor performance, and team conflict.

Grateful athletes do not pretend these circumstance do not exist or pretend they are not affected by them. They do, however, constantly ask themselves “What good can come of this or has already come of this?” in the midst of the struggle.

In difficult times, gratitude can be tough to grab onto. Grateful athletes make an effort to step back, look at the bigger picture, and cling to any silver lining they find.

GRATEFUL ATHLETE’S JOY IS NOT CONDITIONAL

They do not need a win or an epic personal best to be thankful. Gratitude for a grateful athlete is not birthed from good results, nor is it circumstantial.

They understand that lasting joy cannot be found in a game that delivers both the highest of highs and the lowest of lows. How do they set themselves on a trajectory of consistent gratitude?

They put their hope in the one who does not change. God. They read—no, devour His Word. They participate—no, are actively involved in a community of like-minded people to sharpen one another.

  • They pray.
  • They confess.
  • At all costs they stay connected to the one who calls Himself “The Rock.”

GRATEFUL ATHLETES RECOGNIZE EXCELLENCE IN THEIR OPPONENT

They have an appreciation for their competitors. Have you ever noticed that rivals tend to bring their best to the table when they play? Grateful athletes practice gratitude towards a rival on two levels.

  • One, they are thankful that their rival will ultimately bring out the best in their own performance.
  • Two, because their joy is not dependent on winning, they are able to appreciate and look forward to the competition itself. Grateful athletes have a unique ability to want to beat their opponent while at the same time appreciating the intensity that is about to ensue.

References:

  1. https://athletesinaction.org/articles/7-habits-of-a-grateful-athlete/
  2. https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10001424052748704243904575630541486290052

Visceral Fat

Posted on by

Visceral fat is a type of body fat that lies deep within your abdominal walls and surrounds your organs.

Some levels of visceral fat are healthy and help protect your organs. However, too much visceral fat can be dangerous for your health.

Visceral fat is sometimes called “active fat” because it plays an active role in how your body functions. Too much visceral fat can lead to serious health issues such as diabetes, heart disease and stroke.

Difference between visceral fat and subcutaneous fat

  • Subcutaneous fat is fat that’s stored just beneath your skin. It’s the kind that you can pinch between your fingers. Visceral fat is different.
  • Visceral fat is behind your abdominal muscles and can’t be seen. It surrounds your stomach, liver, intestines and other organs.

Visceral fat and subcutaneous fat are both types of belly fat.

Reducing visceral fat is crucial for overall health, as it surrounds vital organs and can increase the risk of serious conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.

Several effective strategies to help you rid yourself of visceral fat include:

Dietary Changes:

Reduce Carbohydrates: Cut down on high-carb foods like rice, starch, and sugary items.

Increase Protein and Healthy Fats: Focus on a diet rich in proteins and healthy fats2.

Avoid Processed Foods: These are often high in trans fats, which can contribute to visceral fat accumulation.

Eat Anti-Inflammatory Foods: Include high-fiber fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, legumes, seafood, low-fat dairy, eggs, nuts, and seeds3.

Regular Exercise:

Cardio Workouts: Activities like swimming, jogging, and brisk walking can help burn visceral fat

Strength Training: Building muscle through resistance exercises can also be beneficial.

Lifestyle Adjustments:

Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help with metabolism and fat loss2.

Manage Stress: High stress levels can increase cortisol, which promotes visceral fat storage1.

Healthy Habits:

Get Enough Sleep: Poor sleep can lead to weight gain and increased visceral fat

Avoid Sugary Drinks: Replace soda and juice with water or green tea

References:

  1. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/24147-visceral-fat

Earl Nightingale’s Success Formula

Posted on by

“Gratitude is one of the strongest and most transformative states of being. It shifts your perspective from lack to abundance and allows you to focus on the good in your life, which in turn pulls more goodness into your reality.” —Jen Sincero

1. Give yourself a definite goal.

2. Quit running yourself down.

3. Stop thinking of all the reasons you cannot be successful and instead, think of all the reasons why you can.

4. Trace your attitudes back through your childhood and try to discover where you first got the idea you couldn’t be successful – if that’s the way you’ve been thinking.

5. Change the attitude you have of yourself by writing out the description of the person you’d like to be.

6. Act the part of the successful person you have decided to become.

― Earl Nightingale

Source: https://www.brilliantread.com/52-best-earl-nightingale-quotes-advice-and-thoughts/#google_vignette

Gratitude and Success

Posted on by

“Learn to enjoy every minute of your life. Be happy now. Don’t wait for something outside of yourself to make you happy in the future. Think how really precious is the time you have to spend, whether it’s at work or with your family. Every minute should be enjoyed and savored.” ~ Earl Nightingale, American radio host and writer

Nightingale emphasizes the importance of gratitude in achieving success. He believes that by expressing gratitude for what we have, we attract more positive experiences into our lives.

Nightingale suggests practicing gratitude daily by writing down three things we are grateful for. He believes that by focusing on the positive aspects of our lives, we can cultivate a mindset of abundance and attract more success.

Source:  https://leaderself.com/summary/the-essence-of-success-earl-nightingale/

Gratitude Improves Athletic Performance

Posted on by

Gratitude Improves Athletic Performance by Kathy A. Feinstein

November 21, 2018

Did you know that practicing gratitude can improve athletic performance? Research confirms what the world’s elite sports stars already know – that being kinder to yourself, and to others, and being grateful, is good for your mental health.

Athletes have talked about how having compassion, gratitude and a sense of perspective enable them to balance the demands of being a full-time athlete with having a family. Grateful young athletes are more satisfied with their teams, less likely to burn out and enjoy better well-being overall on and off the field.

Why is it important that student-athletes should cultivate an attitude of gratitude? Here I share the main reasons:

1. Gratitude encourages humility. When student-athletes express gratitude they move further from the entitlement epidemic so prevalent in society today. It is a small –but meaningful- way that athletes can demonstrate a we, not me mentality.

2. Gratitude deters arrogance. In what some call the “ME-llinial” generation some student-athletes are focused on their individual stats, highlights, and successes regardless of their team. Expressing gratitude to those who have contributed to each athlete’s journey acknowledges that other people matter. No one became successful alone.

3. Gratitude facilitates emotional control. Athletes who experience gratitude are likely to experience more positive emotions. This lowers stress, promotes problem-solving, and greater self-regulation.

4. Gratitude fosters contentment. Not to be confused with complacency, contentment helps athletes to be grateful for what they’ve already received, and that better performance is in their future.

5. Gratitude stewards stronger teams. Research shows that when people cultivate an attitude of gratitude on a regular basis they act with more compassion, generosity, and kindness. This has a positive impact on their relationships. A team with better relationships performs better.

6. Gratitude inspires student-athletes to take better care of themselves. Grateful athletes tend to take better care of their bodies and they tolerate aches and pains easier. They sleep 10% more and feel more alert and focused. All that translates into better performance in competition and the classroom.

Gratitude can enhance athletic performance in many ways. You’ve got to exercise your gratitude muscles every day. Cultivating a consistent attitude of gratitude benefits athletes mentally, physically, and socially.

Here are four tips to enhance athlete’s ability to practice gratitude:

– List five things for which they feel grateful in a journal once a week.
– Do one small thoughtful thing for a member of the family.
– Write a short letter to someone who changed their life for the better and deliver it in person.
– After a successful game, take a moment to personally thank someone who contributed to this happening.

Kathy A. Feinstein is a top sports performance consultant and Parenting Peak Performers podcast host

Source:  https://www.kafcounselingandsportperformance.com/blog/how-gratitude-improves-athletic-performance

Key Lessons from “The Millionaire Next Door”:

Posted on by

Real wealth is often hidden.

Most millionaires live simply and don’t show off their wealth with flashy lifestyles or expensive purchases.

In the book “The Millionaire Next Door”, the author stated that most millionaires live well below their means and focus on value over flashy purchases. Key Lessons from “The Millionaire Next Door” by Thomas J. Stanley and William D. Danko, are:

1. Wealth doesn’t always equal flashy lifestyles: The book reveals that many millionaires live modestly and avoid conspicuous consumption. They prioritize saving and investing over displaying their wealth through extravagant purchases.

2. Frugality and budgeting are crucial: Millionaires often prioritize financial discipline, budgeting, and living below their means. This mindset allows them to accumulate wealth steadily over time.

3. Focus on building net worth, not income: The authors emphasize that building wealth is more about increasing your net worth (assets minus liabilities) rather than focusing solely on high income.

4. The significance of entrepreneurship: The book highlights that a significant portion of millionaires are self-employed or business owners. Entrepreneurship provides opportunities for wealth creation through business ownership.

5. Education and hard work matter: The Millionaire Next Door emphasizes the importance of education, skill development, and hard work in achieving financial success.

6. Avoid excessive debt: Millionaires tend to be debt-averse, using credit responsibly and avoiding high-interest debt whenever possible.

7. Choosing the right career: Certain careers and industries tend to produce more millionaires than others. The book explores the types of professions that often lead to higher wealth accumulation.

8. Building financial independence: The authors encourage readers to prioritize financial independence and early retirement planning as a means to achieve long-term financial security.

Overall, “The Millionaire Next Door” teaches valuable lessons about personal finance, wealth-building, and the habits of financially successful individuals. It serves as a guide for those seeking to build and maintain wealth over time by adopting prudent financial habits.

Book: https://amzn.to/3PwJHLh
Audiobook: https://amzn.to/3YW7pn1

Source:  https://m.facebook.com/story.php

Cultivating Gratitude 7 Proven Benefits

Posted on by

“Gratitude turns what you have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos into order; confusion into clarity. It makes sense of your past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow.” – Melody Beattie

Cultivating gratitude has enormous physical, mental and emotional benefits. Research reveals gratitude can have seven benefits:

1. Gratitude opens the door to more relationships. Not only does saying “thank you” constitute good manners, but showing appreciation can help you win new friends, according to a 2014 study published in Emotion. The study found that thanking a new acquaintance makes them more likely to seek an ongoing relationship. So whether you thank a stranger for holding the door or you send a quick thank-you note to that co-worker who helped you with a project, acknowledging other people’s contributions can lead to new opportunities.

2. Gratitude improves physical health. Grateful people experience fewer aches and pains and they report feeling healthier than other people, according to a 2012 study published in Personality and Individual Differences. Not surprisingly, grateful people are also more likely to take care of their health.  They exercise more often and are more likely to attend regular check-ups with their doctors, which is likely to contribute to further longevity.

3. Gratitude improves psychological health. Gratitude reduces a multitude of toxic emotions, ranging from envy and resentment to frustration and regret. Robert A. Emmons, Ph.D., a leading gratitude researcher, has conducted multiple studies on the link between gratitude and well-being. His research confirms that gratitude effectively increases happiness and reduces depression.

4. Gratitude enhances empathy and reduces aggression. Grateful people are more likely to behave in a prosocial manner, even when others behave less kind, according to a 2012 study by the University of Kentucky. Study participants who ranked higher on gratitude scales were less likely to retaliate against others, even when given negative feedback. They experienced more sensitivity and empathy toward other people and a decreased desire to seek revenge.

5. Grateful people sleep better. Writing in a gratitude journal improves sleep, according to a 2011 study published in Applied Psychology: Health and Well-Being. Spend just 15 minutes jotting down a few grateful sentiments before bed, and you may sleep better and longer.

6. Gratitude improves self-esteem. A 2014 study published in the Journal of Applied Sport Psychology found that gratitude increased athlete’s self-esteem, which is an essential component to optimal performance. Other studies have shown that gratitude reduces social comparisons. Rather than becoming resentful toward people who have more money or better jobs – which is a major factor in reduced self-esteem- grateful people are able to appreciate other people’s accomplishments.

7. Gratitude increases mental strength. For years, research has shown gratitude not only reduces stress, but it may also play a major role in overcoming trauma.  A 2006 study published in Behavior Research and Therapy found that Vietnam War Veterans with higher levels of gratitude experienced lower rates of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.  A 2003 study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found that gratitude was a major contributor to resilience following the terrorist attacks on September 11.  Recognizing all you have to be thankful for – even during the worst times of your life – fosters resilience.

We all have the ability and opportunity to cultivate gratitude. Simply take a few moments to focus on all that you have – rather than complain about all the things you think you deserve.

Developing an “attitude of gratitude” is one of the simplest ways to improve your happiness and satisfaction with life.

References:

  1. Amy Morin, 7 Scientifically Proven Benefits Of Gratitude That Will Motivate You To Give Thanks Year-Round, Forbes, December 10, 2021. https://www.forbes.com/sites/amymorin/2014/11/23/7-scientifically-proven-benefits-of-gratitude-that-will-motivate-you-to-give-thanks-year-round/#5c900d9b183c

 

7 Supplements That Might Actually Help | Readers Digest

Posted on by

There are seven supplements that can help some people strengthen their bones, improve their sleep, protect their heart, and more.

1. Calcium: Strong Bone Builder. Calcium is the  most abundant mineral in the body, and is primarily stored in your bones. If you don’t get enough in your diet, your body will start taking it from your bones, resulting in a heightened risk of osteoporosis. Calcium also helps your muscles to move effectively, your blood vessels to send blood throughout your body, and your nerves to send messages to control important bodily functions, such as the release of hormones.

2. Collagen: For Skin and Joint Health. Collagen is a protein that helps form connective tissue, including skin, bones, cartilage, muscles, ligaments, and tendons. The body makes less of it with age, leading to sagging skin and osteoarthritis, so maintaining adequate levels is important.

3. Fish Oil: For Your Brain and Heart. Fish oil contains omega-3 fatty acids called EPA and DHA, which your body needs to form cell membranes throughout your body—especially in your eyes and brain. They can also reduce triglycerides, a type of fat in the blood linked to heart disease.

4. Magnesium: Healthy Muscles and More. Your body uses this mineral to regulate blood pressure and blood sugar, make proteins, and ensure healthy muscle and nerve function. Low levels of magnesium may contribute to migraine headaches and muscle cramps.
You.

5. Melatonin: For Better Sleep. Melatonin is a naturally occurring hormone that helps regulate your circadian rhythm, the body’s internal clock that tells you when it’s time to go to bed at night or wake up in the morning. Your body releases melatonin as you approach bedtime to make you sleepy, especially if you manage to get plenty of daylight in the morning and avoid too much light at night. When you wake up, your levels of melatonin dip.

6. Vitamin B12: Important for Nerve Health. Vitamin B12, one of eight B vitamins, plays a key role in red blood cell formation and nervous system function. Healthy levels of B12 can prevent vitamin deficiency anemia, which can lead to weakness and fatigue, along with nerve damage, memory problems, depression, and heart palpitations.

7. Vitamin D: Bone, Brain, and Immunity Booster. Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium, which is key for maintaining bone density. Your body also needs it for healthy neuromuscular and immune function. Getting enough may support brain function and decrease the risk of depression. Low vitamin D has also been linked to insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.

Reference:

  1. Ashley Abramson, 7 Supplements That Might Actually Help You, Readers Digest, August 1, 2024.  https://www.consumerreports.org/health/supplements/supplements-that-might-actually-help-you-a6441144119/