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Writer's pictureCharlsie Pecoraro

Getting Back to Nature & Other Self Care Practices

Along the Gulf Coast we are so fortunate to have easy access to beaches and parks to enjoy while maintaining physical distancing from crowds. It is amazing how spending time outside resets your brain. Let's face facts, most of us are getting tired of the restraints that the coronavirus has placed on our lives.


Movie theaters, concerts, and other typical forms of entertainment are not available to us right now. It is up to us to find other options to fill our days. I'd like to share some ideas of safe things to do on the Gulf Coast.

Fort Gaines Canon
Dauphin Island Park

Living in West Mobile means that I am only about 35 minutes from having my toes in the sand on Dauphin Island. I escaped to one of my favorite destinations last week for some "me time". The public beach near Fort Gaines is doggie friendly and not as crowded as the West End one. A day trip to the island is a great way to enjoy a change of scenery. Be sure to pack a picnic lunch and plenty of water since there are no food offerings at the park. They do rent umbrellas if you need one! Of course there are plenty of island restaurants offering take out if you want to go that route!

Dauphin Island
Cadillac Square Park

Cadillac Square Park is a shady space that you can enjoy a picnic lunch on DI. An insider tip is that there are public restrooms available! It is located on the East side of the island off of Bienville Blvd.


The park connects to the walking & biking paths that cover the entire island. You can bring your own bicycles or rent them from one of the local shops.


Last week multiple friends of mine were posting photos taken on the island. It seems like we all had the same idea. Fortunately, folks were maintaining social distancing when I was there, making this an ideal option for entertainment.


Closer to Mobile, there are plenty of parks to explore in the cooler mornings and many are dog friendly. Finding interesting things to do is easy in our area. Go ahead and explore the Coast!


 

Self Care Practices that Promote Longevity


There are nine pillars that are common in the world's "blue zones" for the world's longest-living people. According to an article that I read recently, moving daily through walking, gardening, or some other outdoor activity contributes to a long and fulfilled life. Natural movement is a cornerstone to good health.

Did you know that up to 80% of people experience back pain during their lifetime? In order to move naturally, alignment is important. Dr. Chris O'Laire of Advanced Spine & Therapy is ready to help you with your body's issues.


Read more about his Saraland practice at meetdaboss.com/advancedspinetherapy.

Clients benefit from his broad approach to pain management. Personally, I have been extremely impressed with his staff and the welcoming atmosphere created by the team.



Stress management is another key to living a long and healthy life. Ellen Pino, owner of Avant Tous Beauty Bar and Spa, offers wonderful, stress relieving services including massage.


Her Baton Rouge spas are a definite "must do" when you are in town. She has a stringent protocol in place for dealing with coronavirus insuring that her clients are safe.


Massage, facials and nail care are all services that can contribute to a more relaxed state of mind. I adore my monthly visits to her Willowdale location off of Perkins Road in Baton Rouge. Guests are treated to a wonderful atmosphere that Ellen designed to promote well-being and relaxation.


Make an appointment today for an escape from stress!


A third component to living a long healthy life is to eat until you are 80% full. The Standard American Diet is all about BIG portions. Meet Marcile Sims, a certified health coach. Her four pronged approach to lifestyle & diet is based on decades of research. She will help you overcome the unhealthy overeating habit that you may have succumbed too.


Living a fulfilling life begins with the care and maintenance of the body. She is ready to share her tried and true methods of taking your health back. Read more at meetdaboss.com/marcilesims.


Did you know that moderate alcohol consumption was another factor that contributes to a longer life? A daily glass of wine with food or friends can support longevity. Brooke Goff, owner of Domke Market in Mobile is the person that can help you find the perfect wine to pair with your food.


An eight year study analyzing over 300,000 people found that people who drink 7 glasses of wine or less per week were 20 percent less likely to die of any cause and 25 percent to 30 percent less likely to die of cardiovascular disease than those who were completely sober. The key is moderation!


These are just a few of the Power 9 traits that people who live in the Blue Zones share. Click here to read the full article and learn more about National Geographic journalist Dan Buettner who spent years researching the topic.


Quick Contact Information:

Advanced Spine and Therapy 251-679-1995

Avant Tous Nail Bar & Spa 225-636-2506

Marcile Sims 251-232-3090

Domke Market 251-287-1851

 

I will leave you with this positive thought. What if you place your focus on the good things available within your community instead of the activities you "can't do" because of Co-Vid? Exploring nature, spending quality time with family and enhancing your home life are all things that you can do safely at this time. There is always something to appreciate if you look around and notice. Have a great week ~ Charlsie


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