8 ways reform provides security and stability to those with or without coverage

The following was taken directly from an email written by David Axelrod, Senior Advisor to the President. I thought this was so powerful and thought it was a great way to spread accurate information so that people can get the answers they deserve. Way to go!

8 ways reform provides security and stability to those with or without coverage

1. Ends Discrimination for Pre-Existing Conditions: Insurance companies will be prohibited from refusing you coverage because of your medical history.
2. Ends Exorbitant Out-of-Pocket Expenses, Deductibles or Co-Pays: Insurance companies will have to abide by yearly caps on how much they can charge for out-of-pocket expenses.
3. Ends Cost-Sharing for Preventive Care: Insurance companies must fully cover, without charge, regular checkups and tests that help you prevent illness, such as mammograms or eye and foot exams for diabetics.
4. Ends Dropping of Coverage for Seriously Ill: Insurance companies will be prohibited from dropping or watering down insurance coverage for those who become seriously ill.
5. Ends Gender Discrimination: Insurance companies will be prohibited from charging you more because of your gender.
6. Ends Annual or Lifetime Caps on Coverage: Insurance companies will be prevented from placing annual or lifetime caps on the coverage you receive.
7. Extends Coverage for Young Adults: Children would continue to be eligible for family coverage through the age of 26.
8. Guarantees Insurance Renewal: Insurance companies will be required to renew any policy as long as the policyholder pays their premium in full. Insurance companies won't be allowed to refuse renewal because someone became sick.

Learn more and get details: http://www.WhiteHouse.gov/health-insurance-consumer-protections/

Veggie Monster is just a rumor

So I recently heard that the beloved Cookie Monster (blue, furry, gluttony bound fellow from Sesame Street) was being transformed into Veggie Monster. I was immediately appalled by the news. It was from a good source too. One of my clients, age 7, came in to the gym recently and blurted the news. Upon further research to verify the story I soon learned that this was a rumor and a nasty one at that. Then I pondered. Why such an adverse reaction? After all I promote mindful eating and healthy choices. After quite a bit of reflection it dawned on me. If this disturbing gossip was fact, would this be the appropriate way to combat childhood obesity? HA! I laugh out loud. This problem is so much deeper. Teaching healthy habits starts early and often. It takes good old fashion hard work! Cookie Monster has been shoving obscene quantities of cookies in his oversized charming mouth since 1969. Our nation's weight woes have been spiraling out of control over the last decade. Can hardly blame our furry blue friend for this. Keep Cookie Monster alive. Let's focus our energy on killing video games.

A Goal

What is it about setting a goal? I have written many goals down over the years with much promise to achieve each objective. It was not until recently that I began truly visualizing the outcome of a goal I set. How will it feel? How will it look? I envision my life with the wonderful new accomplishment. This really gives a goal movement. Something magical happens in the process. A transition from the statement you write on a piece of paper to something that exists in your thoughts and ultimately your reality. How empowering! How inspiring!

Eat Less. Move More.

I think this might single-handedly wipe out this country's economic crisis and obesity epidemic in one fell swoop! If every American pledged to eat just 10% less each day and walk 10% more (drive part of the way to work and walk the rest or walk to work instead of taking mass transit) it would be SIGNIFICANTLY more cost effective. Plus the caloric deficit would make weight loss inevitable. Is it really that simple?? Yes, I think so. Let's start a campaign!

Another Contraption

If I have to listen to one more commercial for a "fitness" device that slims your midline in just weeks I might actually put my fist through a wall. As an exercise physiologist the science to support those sweeping statements just isn't there. Yet, most of my clients admit that they have an ab roller, coaster, rocket, lounge or blaster stashed in some dark corner of their closet. The bottom line is people will always search for a quick fix! Sorry folks our bodies just don't work that way. Time, a little sweat, and a bit of work reign supreme. Here is an important tip: if the makers claim that the total pounds lost is more than the total weeks it takes then the total cost was NOT worth the investment. Kudos to your intentions. Your heart was in the right place. Keep your motivation up and your TV off and hit the gym for some sound advice.

The Wise Man

While I was training one of my clients this morning she made a striking comment. She humbly quoted a friend. "A wise man counts his blessings. A poor man counts his problems."

We grind through our days stressfully. We wonder when the economy will pick up and worry about mortgages, college funds, and basically just surviving. This adage is a bold pinch in the ribs. Here is a challenge! Take 5 minutes today and make a list. Title it: The Things That Make Me Happy. Jot down the simplicities in your life that make you smile. It should be easy and pleasurable. Post it somewhere and try to incorporate at least a handful each day and be grateful!

The morning

The solitude of a lonely man, the peacefulness of waves rolling over the shore and the sweet melody of a singing bird. At 6 o'clock in the morning there are few humans moving about this wonderful town of Wexford (Loch Garman), Ireland. Running against the backdrop of the countryside I realize how blessed I am to put one leg in front of the other and transport to another dimension yet feel so connected. I am lost in thoughts of my grandmother's home town; imagining what it used to be like here as I ground myself to the earth. The morning! There is nothing like a run in the morning!