Health & Wellness in April

woman sneezingOptimism Is Better Health


When you’re thinking about things you can do to stay healthy, such as exercising, eating well, and using seatbelts, don’t overlook the importance of positive thinking. Research shows that optimistic attitudes strengthen the immune system, promote healing, and contribute to physical well-being.

Try these tips to improve your outlook:

    • Promote positive self-talk: When you catch yourself thinking negatively (I'll never be able to do this"), stop and reframe more constructively ("It's hard, but if I keep trying I'll succeed").

    • Visualize your goals: Whether you're seeking a promotion at work, an education degree, or a healthier body, imagining your achievement will help you get there.

    • Invest in friendship: Put energy into relationships with family and friends, especially those who make you feel good.

    • Volunteer: People who volunteer live longer and enjoy life more. By helping others, we help ourselves.

    • Laugh: Laughter increases creativity and speeds healing. Look for opportunities to laugh - amusing books, funny movies - allow yourself to enjoy the humorous aspects of your own life.

For additional healthy tips, visit:  www.kp.org/diablo

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Featured Recipe by Dr. Preston Maring

pears

Yield: 6 servings
Total Time: 25 mins
Preparation Time: 25 mins
Make Ahead Tip: Prepare salad without pecans up to 2 hours ahead. Stir in pecans just before serving.

Click here for a printer-friendly version of this recipe

Crunchy Pear & Celery Salad

Ingredients

4 stalks celery, trimmed & cut in half crosswise
2 T cider, pear, raspberry or other fruit vinegar
2 T honey
1/4 tsp salt
2 ripe pears, preferably red Bartlett or Anjou, diced
1 cup finely diced white Cheddar cheese
1/2 cup chopped pecans, toasted (see Tip)
Freshly ground pepper, to taste
6 large leaves butter head or other lettuce

Directions

Soak celery in a bowl of ice water for 15 minutes. Drain and pat dry. Cut into 1/2 inch pieces.

Whisk vinegar, honey and salt in a large bowl until blended. Add pears; gently stir to coat. Add the celery, cheese and pecans; stir to combine. Season with pepper. Divide the lettuce leaves among 6 plates and top with a portion of salad. Serve at room temperature or chilled.

Tip: To toast chopped pecans, cook in a small dry skillet over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until fragrant and lightly browned, 2 to 4 minutes.