Health Benefits of Kindness

World Kindness Week

Random Act of Kindness:  A selfless act performed by a person or persons wishing to either assist or cheer up an individual or in some cases an animal. There is no reason other than to make people smile or be happier. Either spontaneous or planned in advance, random acts of kindness are encouraged by various communities.

The Random Acts of Kindness Foundation

Established in 1995 as a nonprofit organization, The Random Acts of Kindness Foundation is a resource for people committed to spreading kindness. The Random Acts of Kindness™ Foundation inspires people to practice kindness and to “pass it on” to others. They provide a wide variety of materials on their website, including activity ideas, lesson plans, project plans, teacher’s guide, project planning guide, publicity guide, and workplace resources - all free of charge. 

The Random Acts of Kindness Foundation is the United States delegate to the World Kindness Movement, an organization that includes various nations. People in these countries promote kindness within their countries’ borders and are creating a global network of kindness and compassion. As people from different cultures and from all walks of life are joining to spread kindness, they are creating a powerful, synergistic action throughout the world.

Health Benefits of Kindness

Studies have shown acts of kindness can result in physical and mental health benefits.
• Kindness can bring a sense of richness and fulfillment to our lives, and promote good health and longevity.
• Helping others can decrease the effect of diseases.
• After performing an act of kindness many experience a feeling of euphoria followed by a period of calm.
• Acts of kindness have shown to reduce feelings of stress, depression, loneliness, overeating, etc.
• Helping others increases self-worth, happiness, and optimism.
• A person feels more energetic after performing an act of kindness
• A more optimistic and happier outlook on life

Kindness is not only something that
has positive benefits for ourselves,

it is something that has a
positive effect on the community.

As people tap into their own generous human spirit and share kindness with one another, they discover for themselves the power of kindness to effect positive change in their lives and the lives around them. When kindness is expressed, healthy relationships are created, community connections are nourished, and people are inspired to pass kindness on.

February is Fabulous Florida Strawberry Month

To highlight this beautiful and delicious fruit, the Florida Strawberry Growers Association has created a series of educational resources, starring Jammer, the Strawberry.

Jammer the Strawberry and Nutrition

Jammer's Strawberry Fashion Show

Florida Strawberry Food Handling Tips

from Strawberry Sue

In 1982, the Florida Strawberry Growers Association (FSGA) was officially formed. This organization became a voice for Florida strawberry growers. The mission for the handful of farmers was to become "partners in research, promotion and member/community service”.

FSGA is a non-profit organization located in the city of Dover, which is a part of Hillsborough County, Florida. It is the parent company of the Florida Strawberry Patent Service and the Florida Strawberry Research and Education Foundation.

Over the years, the growers have formed a voluntary organization representing over 8,000 acres of berries. Hillsborough County, Florida produces about 15 percent of the nation’s strawberries and virtually all the berries are grown during the winter. The 18 million flats produced each year, if placed end to end, would extend from Plant City, Florida to Seattle, Washington, and back again.

Hillsborough County, Florida is recognized as the "Winter Strawberry Capital of the World and the home of some of the sweetest, reddest and juiciest strawberries around."

Sue Harrell, known affectionately as Strawberry Sue, is FSGA’s director of marketing, and seasoned strawberry grower.  Sue will keep you informed and inspired. You’ll find helpful strawberry-related links, year-round news from the fields, special events, and easy to prepare strawberry recipes.

Strawberry Sue demonstrates
how to make an Edible Strawberry Bouquet
(not just for Valentine's Day)

Visit the FSGA website for additional information, including research, educational resources, recipes, events, and contact information.

Recipes
Healthy Strawberry Recipes and Tips. EatingWell has a selection of fresh and delicious strawberry recipes, such as

Green Salad with Strawberries and Goat Cheese

  Arugula and Strawberry Salad

Rheumatoid Arthritis Awareness Day: Adaptive Utensils

Rheumatoid Arthritis: Cooking Made Easier

Eating well is important when you have rheumatoid arthritis, but joint pain can make cooking taxing. Make kitchen tasks easier with these pain-saving tips.

Adaptive utensils and equipment to make life easier for people living with Arthritis are designed to help prevent hand pain and allow users to be more independent during mealtime. Silverware with large, soft-grip handles and ergonomic designs allow users to feed themselves. Adapted forks, spoons, and table knives that can be bent or angled allow users suffering from arthritis to experience increased independence when eating. Users with arthritis, carpal tunnel, or hand injuries often have difficulty maintaining a grip on items due to decreased arm strength. Arthritis Utensil holders include a variety of grips and unique tools that make holding silverware easier.