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Author: Mind Key Community

Mind KEY / Articles posted by Mind Key Community
Make your own yogurt

Make your own homemade yogurt (in a cooler!)

by Karen Talbot, Wild Gardener When I was a young hippie mom in the early 1970’s, I looked for frugal ways to cut expenses and feed my family. Cooking from scratch, making clothes, baking bread, and growing vegetables are some examples. I wanted to learn to make your own yogurt, since my family liked it so much. It is a healthy fermented food that could even be strained to make a simple cheese. Everything I read at the time seemed to describe a finicky process and required a special thermometer to maintain the temperature. Product pages in the back of magazines advertised an electric yogurt machine with little plastic cups that did everything for you, but it was an expense I couldn’t afford. The good news...

november 2022 full moon report

A Taurus lunar eclipse brings change this November

By Oneyda Salazar The 8th is the full moon lunar eclipse in Taurus and the energy of this is going to be really uncomfortable. The days leading up to this eclipse will be chaotic because Scorpio-ruled Mars will be in retrograde motion in Gemini. Keep reading to learn more in our November 2022 full moon report Polar opposites rile the emotions You must be wondering what Mars has to do with Taurus. Well, traditionally Mars rules Scorpio and it amplifies the emotional state of the Scorpio. What does this mean for the full moon in Taurus? It means emotions will be running amok. Scorpio and Taurus are polar opposites and where Scorpio doesn't mind showing, telling, and making you feel how they feel, Taurus will have you wondering...

november 2022 astrology report

A Change in Direction: November’s astrology report

By Oneyda Salazar November offers the change direction we all desperately need. Since the beginning of this year we have all been experiencing intense change. Life isn’t the same anymore and it will continue to be like this. Many welcome November with hesitation and the awareness that we are in Scorpio season. Fortunately, many planets have stationed direct, facilitating the much needed change of direction in our lives. So many were resisting these changes. Hopefully, you adjusted and didn’t resist too hard because the real fun is here. Keep reading for your November 2022 astrology report.  The full moon on Taurus on November 8th is also an eclipse, which will bring lots of uncomfortable energy. The days leading up to the full moon will feel particularly chaotic...

Comic books are educational

Nourishing the next generation of creators: an interview with Wayne Quakenbush

By Sabrina Rabidoux with Cris McCullough Nourishing and inspiring the creators of tomorrow Our student intern this year has been Sabrina Rabidoux, assisting Mind Key with our social media outreach. Sabrina is a student at The Metropolitan Regional Career and Technical Center (The MET), an innovative high school whose mission is to help students discover their interests and passions and support their journey to achieving their goals through mentoring and internships. Sabrina is also a talented graphic artist in her own right, and a prime example that shows how comic books are educational. I thought she might enjoy meeting one of Newport’s long standing icons in the art scene, Wayne Quakenbush, owner of The Annex Comics on Broadway in Newport, RI. My own kids went to the...

Simple stylish outfits

Create simple, stylish outfits with these six fashion staples

By Sidra Sadaqat On-the-go dressing is an artwork. Sure, you may pull in your favorite pair of leggings and throw on your favorite outsized puffer jacket and call it a day; however, where’s the fun in that? Instead, I discovered that first-rate comfortable style for ladies features both style and function that’s essential to feeling and performing your best, wherever you are. If it seems challenging to put together simple, stylish outfits, today I’m sharing six fashion staples that you probably already own. The key to pulling together comfortable and stylish on-the-go outfits in 2022 is to pair the pieces you own and love with some sparkling updates for the brand new year. A new blazer looks first-rate layered over your favorite colorful turtleneck, for instance. Or,...

Live music for health

Live music for health: how dancing and live events can boost your mental health

By: Katie Sipes The growth provided by music is hard to track on a chart. Fortunately, we can acknowledge how we, as people, have benefited individually. The nourishment provided by live music is not that of typical sustenance, but it is spiritually fulfilling. According to a 2013 article published on the neurochemistry of music, the environment of concerts and music festivals alone provides dopamine and serotonin while also introducing us to new people and places. And this is just one of the ways in which live music can be beneficial for your health. Finding nourishment through music and dancing is intuitive to all of us. By investing our energy into experiences like these, we’re given back what we put in tenfold. We recharge ourselves in ways...

The benefits of adopting two kittens

Explore the benefits of adopting two kittens

By Jordana Mross The Daily Key is introducing a new theme to go along with every issue: pet articles! According to a survey done by Forbes Advisor, 78% of pet owners acquired a new pet during the pandemic. With working from home becoming a norm, more and more people are bringing fur babies into their homes to accompany them. The Daily Key thinks it’s crucial for pet owners to know not only what they’re getting into if they’re considering getting another pet, but also the benefits of adopting two kittens as well. Benefits of adopting two kittens It is already common knowledge that everyone loves kittens. How could you not? They’re sweet, fun, playful, and absolutely adorable! When kitten season comes along each year, many shelters, rescues, and...

non-body self-care

7 Non-body self-care practices that can totally reset your mood

By: Ryan Ashley When most people hear the term ‘nourishment’ their mind usually goes straight to thoughts of food or their bodies. But did you know that there are a ton of ways to feel nourished in your life without thinking about your body or what’s going into it? So many of us have had some kind of stress or trauma relating to those two things, so here’s a list of nourishing practices that will feed your mind and soul – leaving your body out of it. Here’s a list of non-body self-care practices that will feed your mind & soul. Seven non-body self-care practices that have nothing to do with your body 1. Clean Your Spaces If you’ve never noticed how you feel after cleaning your home or...

Tips to support gut health

Tips to support gut health and easily boost your mood

By: Mind Key Community We usually don’t think of our mental well-being as connected to the foods we eat. We may be inspired to eat better to slim up or tend to our physical health, but the truth is, what you eat has just as substantial an impact on your mental function. Admittedly, I’m not the best at eating nourishing foods. I’m a naturally active and productive person, and taking time to feed myself properly usually falls to the bottom of my priority list. To me, eating just seemed like another chore. That is, until I learned how important eating well and supporting a healthy gut was for my mental health. In this piece, my dear friend and holistic nutritionist Savannah Bleue gives some tips to...

Edible milkweed for butterflies

Milkweed: A Source of Nourishment for Pollinators, Monarchs, and Humans

By: Karen Talbot, The Wild Gardener Botanical Sanctuary Gardeners and foragers like me have been encouraged to plant milkweed if they have space. Why? Not only is this plant phenomenal for hosting bees and other pollinating insects, but also because it’s the only source of food for the lovely monarch butterflies. And did you know that milkweed is also edible? According to the American Botanical Council (Mader, p.38), Native American tribes have valued this plant for food, medicine, and fiber. There are over 100 plants in this family, the common milkweed (Asclepias syriaca) is the one I’m talking about here and it’s indigenous to the eastern U.S. where I live. Edible milkweed for butterflies is not hard to grow at all, and I’ve been doing it...

Healthy and all-natural sunscreen

Healthy and all-natural sunscreen options

We all understand the importance of sun protection. From avoiding painful (and embarrassing) burns, to preventing cancer in ourselves and our children, sunscreen is an important part of healthy skin, healthy aging and healthy living. But with the concern raised over chemicals, nanoparticles and other ingredients found in commonly purchased sunscreens, many wonder if there is a way to protect our skin from both the sun and the sun protectants we put on it. Thankfully, there is more than one healthy and all-natural sunscreen out there that not only work, but are also safe for you and the environment. From sun-worshiping to sun-careful by Cris McCullough In the 50’s, we grew up as sun worshipers! We played outside from dawn to dusk, chasing the ice cream truck and...

Building a summer reading habit

Summer reading: Nourishment for mind and soul

by Josephine Belliveau Whether you’re a student, a parent, or an employee, things tend to slow down the longer the sun stays in the sky. It’s the break we all need! While we relax and plan beach trips, we’re nourishing our bodies with joy and rest. Just as important as our bodies, our mind and souls need fulfillment too. Summer reading can easily accommodate both of those things. Maybe you’re already an avid reader that already has a list of good books at the ready. If not, don’t give up on this chapter yet. You’re not alone. According to the Washington Post, a survey from the Bureau of Labor Statistics says that Americans read for pleasure 30% less since 2004. In this multimedia world, it’s hard...

Port Markers represent African American history in Newport

What is Juneteenth and why is it important?

Port Markers represent African American History in Newport Newport, RI has so much history attached to it, going all the way back centuries in American history; this is history that may not be known to many. The Newport Middle Passage Port Marker Project’s mission is to teach locals and visitors about this history, and in 2020, this organization fundraised for commemorations for multiple events in history regarding enslaved African-Americans. This includes both the African-Americans that died during the voyage to America, and the 1619 project as well. Port Markers represent African American History in Newport, and the Port Marker project gives Newport residents an opportunity to learn about African American history, and ensure that the atrocities that happened so long ago won’t be forgotten. Check it out...

Anshi Transdermal Rubs

ANSHI Transdermal Rubs: Simple, natural and effective

The Mind Key editorial team Janelle Noble Donovan created ANSHI Transdermal Rubs after spending countless hours with her daughter at the hospital. Through her various bouts of illness, Janelle found that natural, topical solutions were a powerful way to aid in her daughter’s healing. Now her natural, handmade healing rubs have made their way into beloved vanities across the country. Donovan’s coveted ANSHI turmeric rub is cited on their webpage as “the first topical turmeric for health & beauty.” We had a few writers from The Daily Key give ANSHI a try, and share their experiences. About Anshi Transdermal Rubs “We believe in the power of natural ingredients, and we know that they can gently and effectively speed up the time it takes for your skin to heal,”...

The MET High School

How the MET High School helped a trans student find acceptance

Introduction by Cris McCullough In 1995 the Metropolitan Regional Career and Technical Center (The MET) opened its doors in Providence, RI. It was the creation of two transformative thinkers and educators, Dennis Littky and Eliot Washor. They had a vision to redesign education in a way that, “put students at the center of their own learning.” As it’s blossomed, The MET High School has become a space for acceptance, community and encouragement. One of the driving philosophies of The MET is making sure students feel part of a culture in an environment that cultivates an, “everyone knows everyone” climate, and puts learners at the center of the educational experience. Ours was a happily homeschooled family. But I realized my three very precocious kids needed more opportunity. The MET...

finding inspiration in others

On being a Creative: Finding inspiration in others

By Josephine Belliveau Art, in all of its mediums, is individual in every way. No two people interpret it the same, and no artist creates with the same mind. There is only one thing that all art has in common, and it is that every piece is inspired and inspiring. For me, the most crucial beginning to my creative journey was finding inspiration in others. Psychologist Andrew J. Elliot writes for Harvard Business Review that, “The heights of human motivation spring from the beauty and goodness that precede us and awaken us to better possibilities.”   Art encourages us to see beauty in the mundane or unpleasant aspects of life. Consuming it gives us the power to interpret it into our own context and see that we are not...

Reaching students in the classroom 1

On reaching students in the classroom: Leave them room to bloom

by Darren Cooper Sometimes, reaching students in the classroom seems nearly impossible. Ever wonder why teachers do it? Why they put up with the immaturity, the bureaucracy and the lunacy? It’s for those a-ha moments. That moment of bloom, that moment of joy and excitement when a child, young or old, has their mind opened to a new concept, or a new thought. These teaching tips for new teachers will help bring on those lightbulb moments by offering tips on how to inspire students and how to get students engaged.  “There is nothing like the look in the eyes of a child when you see they are starting to understand what you’re teaching,” said long-time Essex County teacher Chrystine Gaffney. “Those moments don’t happen every day, but...

homemade rose cream recipe

Roses in bloom: A cramp-busting rose magnesium cream

By: Karen Talbot, Wild Gardener Magnesium deficiencies can cause a number of health concerns such as cramps, muscle aches and pains, restless leg syndrome, trouble sleeping, migraines and more. Because magnesium is important for the metabolization of Vitamin D, magnesium deficiencies can also result in symptoms of Vitamin D deficiencies. According to the American Osteopathic Association (AOA), up to 50% of Americans are deficient in magnesium. This recipe for a rose-based magnesium cream can help ease muscle aches, migraines and more. This all-natural homemade rose cream recipe uses dried rose petals, water, magnesium chloride flakes and oils. “We can complain because rose bushes have thorns, or we can rejoice because thorn bushes have roses.”- Abraham Lincoln Roses for cramps, aches and pains One of my favorite times of...

Rhode Island time capsules

Roger Williams Park Zoo & People’s Credit Union celebrate anniversaries with a time capsule

Intro by Cris McCullough Last month, two iconic Rhode Island Institutions—Roger Williams Park Zoo and People’s Credit Union—celebrated landmark birthdays. In a serendipitous alignment, both brands chose to celebrate the big day with Rhode Island time capsules. It’s a way for both institutions to commemorate their achievements and celebrate their history. In a sense, both Roger Williams Park Zoo and People’s Credit Union are honoring their past by anticipating the future. Memories and Rhode Island time capsules Back in 1872, in a park designed by famed landscape designer William Law Olmstead, a zoo was established to entertain and educate the people. I remember it back in the 1950’s when it consisted of caged animals scattered across the scenic landscape. My dad would drive mom and 6 kids past...

Old growth forest in Rhode Island

Portsmouth Forest in Rhode Island receives national recognition

There’s a new Old-Growth Forest in Rhode Island. The Oakland Forest of American Beech trees in Portsmouth RI was recently inducted into the national Old-Growth Forest Network. This is the first Rhode Island forest to join the nationally recognized Old-Growth network, and it offers opportunity for hiking among the trees. The Rhode Island Old-Growth Forest is an unique ecosystem of American beech trees. Thanks to a tree coring project done back in 2000, some of the trees are estimated to be between 200 - 300 years old. The Aquidneck Land Trust has worked to preserve the land for over 20 years. Now, they have a plaque and nationally acclaimed title to reward them for their efforts. Old Growth Forest in Rhode Island gets National Recognition From Newport Daily...

healthy relationship with exercise

Relationship with exercise = relationship with self

by Dana Chapman, The Diet Recovery Coach The word “exercise” is a loaded one that comes with a lot of emotional baggage. This is especially true when exercise is associated purely with weight loss efforts and goals. When you think you "should" exercise, a funny thing happens. You start to dread it, then you are far less likely to actually do it. Which is the opposite result of what you are going for. Today I want to show you another relationship with exercise, and a more freeing way to look at it. Healthy exercise motivation, step-by-step Here's a step-by-step process to get you started on building (or rebuilding) a healthier relationship with exercise, movement and your body…Even if you have had a tumultuous relationship with it for years. If...

Next stage of personal growth

BLOOM: The Spring 2022 issue

by The Mind Key Editorial Team Flowers require an incredible amount of energy to bloom, and so does the process of blossoming as humans. Sometimes, when this is literally all we have energy for, other projects must be tabled until the next stage of personal growth is fully entered. In this issue, we will delve into this growth as we tackle topics on health, happiness and success. Blooming in this context could mean being spontaneous and branching into unknown places. In this issue we hope to offer insights for business and career growth, and how to bloom creatively. We share how to grow past health plateaus, and build better relationships with ourself and with others. We’ll also share our favorite suggestions for helping Mamma Earth bloom...

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Collaborating with nature

Collaborating with nature for a healthy Earth

For meditation purposes, many will ground themselves in nature, an act that can be beneficial for your overall health. Grounding in nature offers a multitude of benefits for body, mind and soul. Since humans are constantly surrounded by nature, stewardship is a natural way to give back to ensure our own health and happiness. Collaborating with nature also offers this hope for future generations. Creating a mutual collaboration with the environment is the mission of the organization Partner With Nature.  Partner With Nature believes that by collaborating with nature, we can create a healthy environment for years to come. Learn more about communicating with nature, and building a simple and sustainable practice of stewardship in your own daily life. Partnering with nature through nature communication by Basia Alexander Once...

mini-guide to storm king art center

A hidden Hudson Valley gem: Storm King Art Center

One of the best ways in the steps to renewing yourself is traveling to a new place. For those not ready to travel, a simple change of scenery may be the key. New York's Hudson Valley is home to a number of unique locations, one of which is New Windsor's Storm King Art Center. This outside/inside exhibit, is part art museum, part nature walk. This unique art experience is a refreshing way to experience artwork. Even those who aren’t huge on art will find something to enjoy. This mini guide to Storm King Art Center This article done by takes you through an average visit of the center, and even gives you directions on how to get there! Your mini guide to Storm King Art Center ​​By...

Imagery with art and words: Building a creative meditation practice

By Kathy Mack, "wholistic" life coach and expressive art therapist Humans are wired for connection and community, but maintaining safety and survival has often meant foregoing these in the past 24 or more months. Given the acute challenges of modern times, many of us have had to make compensations and choices to survive differently during the pandemic. There is a need to renew and reconnect, but how to begin? Building a creative meditation practice is a tool renewal during difficult times. Learn how this simple and creative act can reconnect us with ourselves, our community, and even our inner circle. Creative meditation practice for renewal during difficult times Times of stress, fear, lack of connection, or count-on-able norms and routines that fall away pretty much summarizes our living...

enjoy the great outdoors for renewal

Use nature to combat covid stress syndrome

The National Institutes of Health identified COVID stress syndrome as a legitimate disorder which has made a debilitating impact on our children especially. Hippocrates said, “Nature itself is the best physician,” as Joann Ayuso, a fitness trainer and health coach from Providence, RI, well knows. In 2018, she founded Movement Education Outdoors to provide opportunities for all children, especially those of color and with limited resources, to enjoy the great outdoors for renewal, and begin to recover themselves and, hopefully, regain a sense of normalcy. See why time in nature is not only a balm to the soul, but also an important key to our on-going physical, emotional, and mental well-being and just maybe a way to save and inspire the next generation. R.I. Programs Explore...

Real Root Beer recipe for renewal, an old fashioned natural springtime soda recipe

Step into spring with delicious nutritious real root beer

By Karen Talbot, Wild Gardener Supplements and powders mixed into morning smoothies are helpful in keeping ourselves looking and feeling better. But the foundation of true self-care begins at ground level with unprocessed food and drink that can deeply nourish our health and wellbeing, as well as prevent a call to the doctor’s office. A North American recipe for old fashioned soda made from roots, barks, and herbs (we can call this the Real Root Beer recipe for renewal) is one herbal component of that foundation that benefits many bodily systems. But how did this natural springtime soda originate, and what are these healing plant ingredients? North American recipe for real root beer When colonists arrived in the new world, there were no familiar grains to homebrew “small...

support your adrenals

Support your adrenals to combat stress

It would not be an understatement to say that a majority of us have lived with some form of stress over the last two years. As Dr. Gary Kracoff notes in his article on how renew with adrenal support, short term stress is ok. Our “fight or flight” response kicks in; we handle what faces us and generally move on. But long term, constant stress is another story. It takes a toll on our emotional and physical bodies to our overall detriment. With this issue focusing on Renewal, it’s crucial to have methods available to combat stress, especially if they’re methods you’ve never even heard of. In this article from Natural Awakenings Boston, Dr. Kracoff offers tips for recovering our overall health through the support...

Take a social media break

Springtime self-care: balancing your priorities

By Josephine Belliveau Are you the type of person who is all work and no play, and a part of you feels like you should prioritize your well-being? In this day and age, many aspects of our life take place on a phone screen. Everyone has the opportunity to project themselves through the media. While it is an easily accessible way to stay connected to loved ones and even take inspiration from people you don’t know, it’s easier for lines to blur between the two perspectives of social media and real life. When you’re only seeing the best parts of everyone’s lives, it puts pressure on us to do more and try to measure up to the perfect standard we see all around us. Springtime is...

Renew with self-compassion

Renewal brings a kinder and compassionate you

by D. Isadora Grisanzio  This is a time to start fresh. To shake off the old, and welcome in a new you. As we emerge from isolation into an endemic Covid world, we find ourselves wanting to “spread our wings” and get back to the tried and true habits and experiences—like going to the gym—that familiar rush of “do, do, do” which we often drop off after a month or so into a New Year. Instead, this year, perhaps try giving yourself a gift—renew with self-compassion to not only start fresh, but to also learn self-forgiveness and improve your connection to others. How do you renew with self-compassion? We are often our own worst critics and can be harsh on ourselves, cutting ourselves down constantly with our own...

daffodils for brighter days

Daffodils for Brighter Days

by John Hirshboek Daffodillion introduced their “Daffodils for Brighter Days” logo when Covid tragically became part of our lives two years ago. Most of us began our masking and quarantining that spring, but Newport’s over one million daffodils (a “daffodillion”) still exploded in a profusion of bright yellow glory, as they have each April.  Seeing the daffodils emerge, after a winter of Covid’s doom and gloom, brought a symbol of hope. They promised us brighter days ahead.  Buttressed with an outpouring of support and sentiment to continue our efforts, we sought donations to purchase more bulbs to give away in the fall of 2020 and again in 2021. Our community responded, both with contributions and then “sold-out” bulb giveaways each October.  As a result, an additional 100,000 Dutch Master...

Athlete recovery methods help with training without injury

By Darren Cooper Athletes are willing to do anything to gain a competitive edge on their opponents. Today that even means stepping into a deep freeze. In the last few years, the world of athletic training has seen a new-found emphasis on recovery and renewal. It’s no longer all about how much weight you can push on a bench press bar. It’s about flexibility and the ability to keep training without injury. “I’d say in the last five years or so, recovery has become a huge focus,” said Mike Nunziato, owner of TNT Training in Paramus which has serviced professional athletes and college and high school stars. “We know that if kids are beat up all year, they’re not going to be able to practice hard.” Cryo has...

Spring renewal for health and success

RENEWAL Issue of The Daily Key

by The Mind Key Editorial Team Spring is invariably coupled with the idea of this issue’s theme of Renewal. Each spring, harbingers of growth and birth appear across the earth, and ecology grabs our attention. We renew promises to ourselves to stick with the diet, or get out and exercise more or make other improvements in our bodies and our environment as a whole. Our issue’s theme of spring renewal for health and success means it’s never too late to start fresh and make major, or even minor changes in your life. Renewing yourself can be as simple as trying something new or visiting new places; the main idea is to prioritize your well being. These little actions can become bigger steps in growth and renewal...

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Special dog training

My training adventure with Mochi

by Mei B., 10 year old student writer My mom said we would never get a third dog.  Lucky for me, my mom looks at puppies on Instagram. Not so lucky for me, my endocrine system stinks. Because of this I have type 1 diabetes, celiac, and hyperthyroidism. This means my pancreas doesn't work properly, my body doesn't like wheat, and my thyroid hormones cause anxiety. My mom decided to consider getting a puppy to train to be an  emotional support animal for my anxiety. We found a small dog that we liked and I got to pick him out but that was only the beginning.  In order to take him with me everywhere he needs to get special dog training.  Early training Early training I did myself....

save the earth by gardening

Gardening is Great!

by Juliet M.C.M., 8 year old student writer This article is dedicated to my Papa, who loves gardening 👨🏽‍🌾 I love him so much. J.M.C.M. I am writing about gardening because it is good physical activity, you can save money, it is easy to do, you can eat what you grow, and it is good for Pacha Mama. And you can grow anything! You really can save the earth by gardening! Gardening is a good physical activity Gardening is a good physical activity, so get working! Gardening is like walking and bicycling, it builds physical strength, and works all the major muscle groups: Legs, arms, shoulders, neck and back. You can also plant with family and friends, making it a fun social activity. Love your Mother Earth: Pacha Mama Gardening is...

How can I help heal my environment

How can I help heal my environment?

by Leasia Green, 14 year old student writer How can I help heal my environment? There’s not much time left to change everyone’s current lifestyle to help the environment, so it’s best to do it at a time where wildlife will grow and thrive the most; spring!  How much of an impact does wildlife have on the environment? It’s no doubt the wildlife on Earth makes up a majority of the environment; so, how much of an impact does wildlife really have on Earth? If all of the wildlife on Earth died out, or overpopulated quicker than usual, how large would the events be that follow afterwards? Let’s say all of the wildlife on Earth suddenly died out. (plants, trees, flowers, insects) the ecosystem would quickly collapse, and would...

Cherry blossom, bleeding heart and hyacinths for spring

Flowers for spring

by Roselia, 10 year old student writer Flowers bloom in spring. Three flowers that bloom in the spring are hyacinths, bleeding hearts and cherry blossoms. Hyacinths: The shades of spring Hyacinths have a beautiful smell and many different colors. Each color flower has a different smell and hyacinths are normally used in perfume making. Hyacinths are surprisingly in the same family as asparagus. They are used to celebrate the Persian New Year. Hyacinths are poisonous if eaten. Different colored hyacinths have different meanings, pink hyacinths mean playful or joy, the purple flowers mean “deep regret” and white represents love and prayer. Hyacinth’s scientific name is Hyacinthaceae and you can grow and find them in November through May depending on where you live. Bleeding Hearts: Four petals for a heart There are...

Clean beauty products for spring

Clean beauty products for spring skin

by Magdalena Durkin, 13 year old student writer Clean beauty products are better for you and can help you bring your skin back to life in the spring. This article will include what is different about clean beauty products, what chemicals are bad in beauty products, clean beauty products brands and where to find them, and lastly how to make your own natural moisturizer. What chemicals are bad in beauty products Beauty products might make you look pretty, but the ingredients in them can be really bad for you. According to Business Insider some toxic ingredients are added during the making of beauty products, while product companies put other chemicals into the makeup to help with absorption, shine, shimmer, or a non-greasy feel. You may be surprised...

Flowers a sign of spring

Flower Power: Just in time for spring

by Izzy W-C, 8 year old student writer Goodbye snow! It’s time for flowers! Do you like flowers? I do! In this article you will learn about the state flower of Rhode Island, why flowers are called flowers, and why flowers have certain colors. Flowers are a sign of Spring. Soon flowers will be everywhere. They are not only beautiful, but also useful to people. The meaning behind the flower The word flower comes from the word “flour”, which used to mean both the grain and the plant, before the plant version of the word was changed to flower in the 1600s (Flower - Wikipedia). Both flour and flower come from the name of the Roman goddess of flowers, Flora. People also used to use the word “blossom”...

Enamorus the newest Pokemon for spring

by Toby W-C, 12 year old student writer As the sun sets over the horizon, a pokemon floats over the mountains. It melts the snow, and flowers grow everywhere it looks. This is the pokemon Enamorus. But what is Enamorus, what can it do, and how is it related to other similar pokemon?  Enamorus: A new spring Pokemon Enamorus is one of the newest Pokemon, introduced in the “Pokemon legends: Arceus” game this year. It looks like a pink-skinned human with spikes coming out of its forehead, white hair in the shape of a heart, and a cloud for legs. In addition, it has a snake with a heart pattern coming out of the cloud. Enamorus brings spring weather by spreading love throughout the land but will also...

jumping spiders

Amazing jumping spiders

by Tree Girl, 11 year old student writer The first time I saw a Jumping Spider was in Oregon two years ago.I used to raise Jumping Spiders, and I would feed them about once a week, and take them out to play almost everyday! Whenever I found a Jumping Spider, I would try and catch it. Because of this, I would have about five Jumping Spiders at a time! The ones that I usually caught were the Bold Jumpers, with blue-green fangs. Jumping spiders are awesome because they can jump high, they have great eyesight, and they are amazing hunters. Jumping spider Photo credit: https://www.rawpixel.com/ They jump really high Adult Jumping Spiders grow about ⅛ to ¾ inches, and they can jump 25 times their own body length. They have...

spring animal breeding

Springtime baby animals

by Celestetia, 9 year old student writer I like spring animals because they all come out after the cold winter, and they will have adorable babies, especially eastern gray squirrels and robins.   Caption: This reminds me of the the squirrels that like to eat on our porch Photo credit: https://www.rawpixel.com/ Eastern Gray Squirrel Eastern gray squirrels are a type of tree squirrel and their babies are cute. Eastern gray squirrels start mating in January and finish in February, and sometimes they may keep going until July. When the female squirrels are going to start mating, they make sounds and scents. The males start to fight to show who is the best then the female will run away. The males cause the female to get tagged and they mate. The female...

Make eco-friendly and sustainable choices this holiday season

By Sandra Yeyati Several holiday traditions, while bringing joy to people, can also cause harm to the environment. The endless amount of paper used for wrappings, certain gifts being made of non-renewable material, and decorations that use a lot of electricity all can be detrimental to Earth in the long run. Strategic action is necessary in order to help this issue. Thankfully, advancements in technology have given us the opportunity to be able to celebrate the holidays while maintaining harm reduction. This Natural Awakenings article by Sandra Yeyati shows how you can engage in sustainable choices during the holidays, which includes eco-friendly decorating and responsible gifting. Greening the Holidays: How to Celebrate Sustainably With every record-setting storm and catastrophic fire, more people are realizing that we are embroiled...

Replenish your energy and thrive with this guided cord cutting meditation

by Sierra Vandervort Do you need a bit of rest? Maybe you feel as if you’re giving so much energy away, and never taking the time to refill your own cup. If so, then a cord cutting meditation may be able to help you. Cord cutting is a form of meditation that uses energy attunement and visualization practices to aid in closing energy leakages and promote spiritual healing. Visualization as a tool for energy and attunement  In this meditation, we call to mind all the many ways we are giving away our energy; from the most obvious forms such as work, family and daily tasks, to the subtlest pieces like stress, jealousy or defenses. Then, through focused breathing and some guided visualizations, we work to find harmony and...

reduce stress with yoga this holiday

Take Five and Thrive: Yoga for reducing stress

by Sara Sundance Imagine navigating the holiday season with a sense of calm and presence? As wild as that idea sounds, it is not only possible but also incredibly simple. Carve out five minutes from your busy holiday schedule and assume this restorative legs up the wall yoga pose to reduce stress and bring calm. Integrate breathwork, you will quickly relax your body and quiet your mind.  This easy combination of Legs-Up-The-Wall Yoga pose and Box Breathing can make a big impact on your stress levels, and restore a sense of calm. Five minutes to reduce stress with yoga this holiday For the Legs-Up-The-Wall Yoga Pose, find a clear wall space and two blankets. 1. Sit with your side against the wall and knees bent. 2. Swing your legs up against...

Create boundaries for toxic family holiday survival

Tips for thriving with toxic family this holiday

by Danielle Rose Holidays can be tough on families. Getting everyone together in one room has the potential to trigger even the most well adjusted. Sometimes the most obvious choice for holiday survival with toxic family is the most difficult: avoid gatherings where the family member will be. As Rachel Zoffness Ph.D. wrote in her 2019 article in Psychology Today, your time is precious, and sometimes that most precious commodity is better spent elsewhere than navigating bad behavior.  When that isn’t possible, boundaries and action plans can save the day. “There’s this idea that holiday gatherings with family are supposed to be joyful and stress-free,” says Ken Duckworth, MD, medical director of the National Alliance on Mental Illness in a WebMD article on stress management over the...

Get what you want this holiday

Getting What We Want From Others

Did you know that you can get what you want from others this holiday without falling into the expectation trap? When we rely on ourselves, rather than others, to achieve our goals, we become more empowered, independent, and generally take better care of ourselves. Wendy Watson-Hallowell, professional and corporate Belief Coach, offers a different perspective on how to get what we want from others by changing our own behavior and attitude.  by The Belief Coach, Wendy Watson-Hallowell Why do we rarely get what we want from others, even when we give our all? What if we could never count on getting what we wanted from others? How would that have us feel? Hopeless? Powerless? Despondent? For many of us, this is what it felt like as children,...

journaling to create a holiday memory book

More than just memories: A holiday memory book can heal

by student writer, Josephine Belliveau Creating a holiday memory book can be a great way to commemorate the treasured moments we experience over the holiday season. Most people make scrapbooks that are decorated pages with pictures. However, sometimes pictures don’t do the valuable memories we never want to forget justice. A holiday memory book combines scrapbooking and journaling to bring peace and calm to your holiday traditions. By adding the aspects of daily journaling, you’re turning a scrapbook into a memory book that’s unique to add to your family history. Bringing the holidays alive with stories and anecdotes. You’re recounting these memories with not only pictures but with words.  Creating a holiday memory book tradition Every family has their own traditions and ways to celebrate the holidays, some...

digestive bitters are a natural upset stomach cure

Preempt holiday indulgences with a bottle of bitters

Bitters are an essential addition to my holiday survival toolkit. I will stash a bottle into my smallest purse rather than brave a dinner party without it. This article from Nature’s Goodness in Newport Rhode Island gives an overview this natural upset stomach cure, discussing the history of bitters as a cocktail ingredient, how they work, and where they can be found in foods. by Patty Lenz Bovie for Nature's Goodness Bitters are alcohol-based extracts of bark, roots, berries, leaves, or flowers of bitter-tasting plants. Known for the essential role they play in signature cocktails, they burst with a range of aromatic flavors such as zesty orange, tarragon spice, and nutty coffee. But taste is not their only perk. Research has shown that bitters may also be...

DIY cold and flu remedy made from pine

A Warming Elixir for surviving the Winter Blues

by Karen Talbot, wild gardener The fragrance wafting up from my hot cup of tea conjures up favorite evergreen memories as I write. I can still smell the balsam firs where we camped in New Hampshire years ago; discovering a magnificent blue spruce on a South County RI trail; and the pleasure of harvesting pine needles for this cup of tea outside my door. Pines are also my medicine for preventing and easing the symptoms of a cold and cough, building  the immune system, and especially preventing the flu. This DIY pine cough and flu remedy is a great herbal solution to survive winter and can be made with almost any evergreen available to you. Pine: It’s not just about holiday memories Evergreen needles are the main ingredient...

Winter healing with white pine

White pine medicine: Not just holiday magic

by Artemis Body & Soul Eastern White Pine (Pinus strobus) of the family Pinaceae is ideal for winter healing, predominately, because it can be gathered anytime of the year. Often branches of white pine are felled during winter storms, and as long as the needles are still green, it’s good to use. Plus, their medicinal and spiritual uses in boosting immunity and battling congestion and coughs while supporting the lungs comes in handy during the holiday and cold/flu season. So does its spiritual abilities to help the body move through grief, sadness and situations that require a peacemaker. Identifying the winter healer  Identifying white pine starts with recognizing the long bluish-green needles. Look closer, the needles are long and “flowy.” At an even closer look, you should notice...

Seasonal tips to thrive this holiday

Thriving through the holidays: Tips for a well-balanced holiday season

by Cris McCullough & the Mind Key Editor Team We have all survived a year filled with challenges and now another challenge looms...

Find a happy and productive life by ignoring the unimportant and focusing on the important tasks.

Focus not Multitasking: the key to joyful productivity

by Dawn Goodman Is focus the key to a happy and productive life? Some say the ability to focus on what is important and follow one task, one goal or one vision to completion, is the key to personal and professional success. In today’s knowledge economy, where information is currency, focus has become even more valuable than intelligence. While it may not be possible to increase your innate I.Q.,  you can learn to cultivate mental strength and train your brain to focus. Deep thinking, a byproduct of focus, is what allows for creativity, problem-solving and learning. But focus requires undivided attention, which in today’s multimedia, multi-screen, multitasking world is hard to come by without—well—without focusing on it.   Is multitasking possible? Research has shown that multitasking is scientifically impossible...

Cultivate abundance and get passionate about your finances

By Dawn Goodman Here’s the thing: Prosperity involves fiscal mastery. But fear not! You can cultivate abundance and master your budget.   Money is energy Louise Hay, author of You Can Heal Your Life, writes, “Prosperity involves the quality of our lives as well as any amount of money that we possess.” Money is energy, which is why Mind Key often refers to finances as currency rather than money. Being able to love your finances—regardless of your current financial situation—feels abundant, and leaves room for more abundance, joy, health, happiness and ultimately prosperity. Money can fuel your passion, and according to some studies, can even make you more passionate.   Cultivating abundance: the prosperity/passion connection Kate Northrup, author of Money: A Love Story, said in an interview with spiritual coach, Danielle LaPorte, “When...

You need fresh produce in your healthy lifestyle.

The dark side of weight loss: Embracing passion, overcoming hype

By Amanda Hollenbeck How commercialism affects your health The term “weight loss” is often met with frustration, especially when we so often need to unravel weight loss commercialism myths. The idea of having to endure mental and physical self control does not have to become a prison before the journey even begins. A weight loss journey can become a healthy, lifelong and passion-driven decision. Fad diets and the diet industry are cashing in on our need to be thin. They are also fostering an unsustainable practice driven by commercialism and not passion. In the book Encyclopedia of Fad Diets, authors Marjolijn Bijlefeld and Sharon K. Zoumbaris state that diet products are a huge business that rakes in billions of dollars from hopefuls who desire the perfect image...

Consistent yoga practice leads to healthier ego.

Identifying and Understanding the Ego Through Yoga

The ego can find balance with a simple and consistent yoga practice. The ego is not altogether “bad,” and in fact, we better understand  ourselves when the ego has healthy balance. Here are some tips for how to use Yoga in your daily quest to understand your ego. Consistent yoga practice and a stronger self Albert Einstein believed that our personal experiences lead us to feel separate from the rest of the universe (consciousness). He says this delusion creates a self-imposed prison, restricting us from our personal desires and affections. We must widen our circle of understanding and compassion to embrace all of nature. Although the ego was initially created to keep us protected and safe, we often outgrow those beliefs and paradigms long before we release them...

Five communication tips for seeing your partner’s point of view

By Joseph Gonzalez Relationships are complex, and relationship communication is one of the most difficult aspects of any relationship. Whether romantic, platonic, or familial, they require effort. The ego and how we were raised plays a large part in how we perceive our partners. They also play a role in our relationships at large. Successful relationship communication shifts how the ego filters our interactions with our loved ones. This can help avoid undue judgment and result in greater relationship satisfaction. Allow the following approaches to enrich your relationships. Allow them to open your mind to new possibilities for strengthening the bond of love.   [caption id="attachment_6761" align="alignleft" width="206"] Relationship communication is key. Image by Kennedy Shenberg.[/caption] 1. Think about where they’ve come from It can be easy to forget how different...

Live a longer, healthier life through continued learning

By the Mind Key Editorial Team   It has long been believed that knowledge seekers live longer. In fact, recent studies confirm that continued learning exercises have been found to improve neuroplasticity, or the ability to stay mentally sharp. Continued learning has also been known to reduce the onset or symptoms of memory-related diseases. For example, a 2010 review published in the Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services found that education has the ability to protect our memory and intelligence, and even minimize the effects of low education. Cognitive inactivity, on the other hand, has been associated with reduced fluid intelligence (processing speed and ability). Cognitive Activity Factors In an article published by Scientific Learning Corporation, renowned researcher in brain plasticity, Dr. Michael Merzenich, notes that the brain...

the mental agility required of chess is one of the benefits of continued learning

Continued learning is a powerful anti-aging agent

By Barbara Steingas We’ve all met someone or have someone in our lives who thinks they are a know-it-all. Unfortunately, they are self-sabotaging themselves by limiting their own health, happiness and joy, as well as that of those around them. It is a strength, not a weakness, to not know everything. Besides, that is basically impossible. The benefits of continued learning can combat aging, as well as support mental and physical health. In this article, I’ve chosen to share the benefits I’ve experienced in being a lifelong learner.   Benefits of continued learning Keeping the mind sharp My German grandmother, or Omi as I called her, had one of the sharpest minds I’ve ever seen when she passed away at age 94. I firmly believe this is because she made...

create your best year in 2019

Learn to create the perfect year this January

By Seshat Clairvoyant Happy New Year! 2019 is bringing us so much new energy to learn from. This is the year to learn how to create a more positive life. When we add 2019 it adds up to three. Three years give us the energy to create. In numerology, the number three is all about creation, self-expression, optimism, joy and socializing. Perhaps most importantly, threes represent honing your spiritual practice. This is the time for expansion, illumination and plain old fun. The energies will show us how to create your best year in 2019. We will learn new ways of leading a healthier life—a more spiritual life...

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