Top 5 Reasons Why Your Kids Should Try Acupuncture
The following post comes from the experts at Open Circle Acupuncture and Healing. Open Circle will be starting a kids clinic on Wednesday afternoons in February. Stay tuned for details! 1. It’s Natural: If you are getting tired of going into your child’s doctor’s office and walking out with another prescription, you might be feeling ready for a more holistic approach. Acupuncture initiates and strengthens the body’s innate ability to heal itself. We also work with nutrition, herbs, supplements and more, to help your child heal naturally! 2. It Doesn’t Hurt: Acupuncture treatments for young children often involve gentle non-insertive acupressure techniques that can powerfully treat many different conditions. When actual needles are used they are almost ALWAYS completely pain-free because these needles are so much thinner than any you’ve seen before. 3. It Treats Many Different Conditions: We’ve treated children successfully for many conditions including anxiety, sleep issues, ADHD, digestive disorders, allergies, headaches and more! 4. It Strengthens the Immune System & Prevents Future Illness: Prevention is always easier than treating a problem that’s already showing symptoms. Acupuncture works to heal the root causes of your child’s issues so that they don’t just get well but stay that way! 5. It’s FUN and RELAXING: Most of our kids really […]
Eclipsed by the College Admissions Process?
The following advice comes from College Bound, Career Ready Currently, high school educators and guidance counselors find themselves overworked, overtired, understaffed, and underfunded. Secondary teachers meet with 150+ students per day and guidance counselors work at an all-time high national average of 491 student to eachcounselor; in California it’s a staggering 941 students to each counselor. Imagine trying to getfor individualized advice when your guidance counselor has over four hundred students to divide his or her time among. Stuck in the muck is the most important audience – students who fear that the educational process is breaking and that they are left to fend for themselves. From high stakes testing, to financial planning, to an increasingly competitive global job market, there is incredible pressure and challenges for students to navigate on their pathway to college. In addition, there is an abundance of pressure to be “unique” and to standout amidst their peers. No one wants to have their chance to reach their goals eclipsed by the daunting admissions process or by the overwhelming amount of baggage that comes along with it. So how are students expected to skillfully maneuver through the process? Keep a Well-Maintained Planner Organization is key when inundated with important deadlines, dates, events, and obligations to take care of. Update your planner frequently. Catalog your application deadlines, plan when you will apply for FAFSA, set scholarship goals and application deadlines, make note of test registration deadlines and test dates, log senior events, Setting up your timeline well in advance will create a go-to resource for students who are intending to juggle numerous obligations with less stress. Build Relationships Sometimes students need to look no further than the leaders who surround them, such as teachers, administrators, coaches, neighbors, clergy, youth group leaders, etc. What were theirexperiences? How can they network with you? Would they be willing to write a strong letter of recommendation? Do they have the skills to edit your admissions essay? Begin conversations, listen, and generate a reliable supporter who can support you. Set Clear Goals When students strategically create purpose for themselves, they begin to work smarter, not harder. Having a clear objective, with a timeline will help students drive toward success. The key is to write down goals and review them daily; push yourself to accomplish them. Be Persistent Apply zealously for scholarships. When frustration strikes, ask a wealth of questions and do not stop until you feel comfortable moving forward. If standardized testing does not show favorable results, be tenacious about your studies and improving your grades. Locate Resources Tools are critical when it comes to the college admissions process, and they come in many forms. Computers, scholarship manuals, college fairs, college counselors, college admissions representatives from your chosen institutions, College Board, Khan Academy, local scholarshipoffers, etc. are all tools that need to be used and used well. Adapt a Mindset of Resiliency Rejection is a part of the process for both college and scholarship applications. When students recover quickly from tough circumstances and forge on, they learn how to adapt andsubsequently grow. Ultimately this opens students up to circumstances in which they will work harder for success in an effort to avoid further disappointment. If students are to shed light on the college admissions process and avoid an eclipse, they cannot do it alone or on a whim. Support and intentional decision making are essential to success. If you’re looking for support, we’re ready to encourage you and to guide you through the process. CBCR is well researched, student-centered, and ready to shed light on the admissionsprocess, in order to lead students toward their maximum success with confidence.
Boosting the Immune System: What to add and what to subtract?!
The following advice comes from Open Circle Acupuncture and Healing In these crazy Covid times, two of the main day to day things that everyone wants support with are stress relief and immune boosting. People are wanting to stay healthy, and the thought of getting sick, even if it isn’t Covid, is causing many people a great deal of stress. So today we’ll focus on simple everyday things you can do to support both! Whenever we talk to patients about self-care, we always ask, “What can you add and what can you subtract?” Often in our ‘quick fix’ culture, we want a pill to pop that will fix all of our ails, but the real change comes from shifts in lifestyle and mindset. Sometimes it’s more powerful to UN-DO something that is causing you harm than it is to add something new, even if it is healthy. So I’ll start there and then give some simple things you can add to your life that will enhance your immunity and calm stress! MOST IMPORTANT THINGS TO ‘UN-DO’ TO BOOST IMMUNE AND CALM STRESS: Cut back on sugar: Sugar is inflammatory so will increase pain, upset digestion and suppress the immune system with regular consumption. Allowing […]
Be Prepared for Long-term Care Costs
You may never need any type of long-term care – but if you did, could you afford it? It can be expensive. The median annual cost for a private room in a nursing home is about $105,000, according to the insurance company Genworth. But even if you never need a nursing home stay, you might require other services, which are also costly. Generally speaking, you may want to factor in about two to three years’ worth of long-term care expenses in your overall financial strategy. To prepare for these costs, you could self-insure by designating money in your investment accounts specifically for long-term care. But you’ll need to see how this move could affect your other financial goals. You could transfer the risk of long-term care to an insurance company. A financial advisor can explain the available options. Or you could combine self-insurance with an insurance policy. Whichever route you pick, you’ll be helping protect yourself – and possibly your family – from the potentially huge costs of long-term care. And that protection can help brighten your entire outlook. This content was provided by Edward Jones for use by Carol Crowley, your Edward Jones financial advisor at 386 West Main […]
Ask the Experts: Do I Need Life Insurance?
Most people need life insurance. But many don’t obtain it because they’re deterred by certain myths. Myth No. 1: “My spouse works and we don’t have kids, so I don’t need insurance.” Could your spouse afford the mortgage if you weren’t around? And are there student debts? Myth No. 2: “Life insurance is too expensive.” Actually, term insurance can be quite affordable, especially if you’re young. Myth No. 3: “I get enough insurance though my employer.” Your employer’s policy may be far short of what you need, especially if you have several dependents. Myth No. 4: “I have a pre-existing condition, so I couldn’t get coverage.” Not all conditions will disqualify you, though you might have to pay more for coverage. Myth No. 5: “Insurers don’t want to pay out the proceeds.” In truth, insurers need very good reasons to deny claims. In fact, they are motivated to pay quickly to avoid accruing interest charges. Don’t let any of these myths stop you from getting the insurance you need to help protect your loved ones. This content was provided by Edward Jones for use by Carol Crowley, your Edward Jones financial advisor at 386 West Main St. Northborough, MA 01532 (508)393-5195 Member SIPC Edward Jones is […]
Ask the Experts: Keys to College Admissions
There is a mystique that surrounds the admissions process and it is important to be informed as you navigate the pathway to college. The experts at College Bound, Career Ready have provided some tips to keep in mind: There is a College for everyone.The admissions process is meant to weed out students who aren’t ready for the demands that college requires.It’s not about being well rounded, it’s about showcasing your talent and strengths. Don’t be interesting, Be Interested!The earlier students begin to strategically plan for college the easier their application process and transition will be.Inflating, fabricating, distracting, and rushing applications and admissions essays can destroy your chances of acceptance. Thinking and acting strategically throughout the duration of high school, performing well academically, and having a resume worth writing about beats a last minute scramble and creative spin any day of the week.Heed sound advice as you approach Application Season and you, too, will be #CollegeBoundCareerReady
Ask the Experts: How do I keep my investments working for me?
This content was provided by Edward Jones for use by Carol Crowley, your Edward Jones financial advisor at 386 West Main Street Northborough, MA 01532 (508)393-5195. Member SIPC Now that the COVID-19 pandemic has subsided somewhat, people are feeling freer to travel. But while it’s nice for you to take a vacation, you won’t want your investments to do the same. How can you keep them working on your behalf? First, invest consistently. If you only dabble in investing, occasionally putting some money in to one investment or another, it will be difficult to build a portfolio that’s consistently working in your best interest. Also, you need to own enough of the types of investments that can provide the growth you need to reach your long-term goals. And make sure you’re getting the most out of these investments. For example, your 401(k) and IRA are designed for your retirement – so try to avoid tapping into them early. Finally, review your investment portfolio at least once a year to make sure it’s still performing the way you intend. If it’s not helping you make the progress you need to achieve your objectives, you may want to make some changes. If you’re […]
Ask the Experts: The Benefits of HBCUs
The following information is provided by Northborough’s College Bound, Career Ready Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) were established to provide safe post-secondary education to the African American community. However, students of any race were permitted to attend. Prior to the Civil Rights Act of 1964, discriminatory practices prevented blacks from attending white institutions. Understanding the need to access education and the desire to gain professional skills, the American Missionary Association and the Freedmen’s Bureau spearheaded the movement to create colleges and universities for African Americans throughout the South, Midwest, and Northeast. This fervent pursuit of higher education led to Cheyney University of Pennsylvania’s establishment in 1837. This was the first institution of higher learning for Blacks. Today there are 107 Historically Black Colleges and Universities; 56 private and 51 public. Among the most popular are: Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University, Howard University, North Carolina Central University, and Tuskegee University, to name a few. These institutions have empowered and educated their student bodies for more than a century, each graduating class’ talent pool striving to surpass its predecessor. HBCUs are a hotbed of culture, scholarship, and camaraderie. Students attending HBCUs have reported feeling emotionally and mentally supported by their professors […]
Ask the Experts: Communications is Key When it Comes to Finances
June is Effective Communications Month. Communication is important in all walks of life, including money-related matters. So, make sure you and your family are clearly communicating about your financial goals and expectations. For example, you and your spouse may want to discuss your investment styles. Perhaps one of you is willing to take on more risks in the hope of higher returns, while the other is more risk averse. You each may need to compromise to reach your common goals. You’ll also need to communicate effectively with your parents about matters such as their estate plans. Have they drawn up a financial power of attorney? Are they working with a legal professional? If not, encourage them to get the help they need. And if you have grown children, share your own estate plans with them. But if you’d like to help them financially right now, such as assisting with a down payment on a home, be clear about the support you can provide. By talking with your loved ones about key financial matters, everyone benefits. So, keep those lines of communication open. This content was provided by Edward Jones for use by Carol Crowley, your Edward Jones financial advisor at […]
Mind the Gap: Summer Tutoring in 2021
The following post is courtesy of Kim Haven, owner of Club Z! In-Home Tutoring of Northborough The decision to hire a tutor over the summer is often a tricky one. Kids need time to be kids — to play outside, spend time with friends and enjoy family vacations without worrying about schoolwork. Never has this been more true than this year, after the added stress and mental exhaustion of the 20/21 school year. However, there are other factors to consider given this unconventional year of education. In a normal year, conversations around summer tutoring would focus on things like stopping the “summer slide” — the backwards momentum that sometimes happens when students spend two months away from the classroom. This year, the conversation is much more around “filling the gaps.” What fundamentals did students miss because of remote learning or sick days? What skills do they need a better handle on in order to be successful in the coming year? For students in the K-8 grades, the most problematic gaps will be in the areas of reading and math. These are skills that are built upon year after year in the classroom, and a student’s mastery of them (or lack […]
Investing on Behalf of Your Children
This content was provided by Edward Jones for use by Carol Crowley, your Edward Jones financial advisor. Member SIPC. If you’re a dad, you’ll probably get some nice Father’s Day gifts. But your greatest gift may be your ability to help your children. You could start them in the world of investing – and make a few investments on their behalf. For starters, consider a 529 education savings plan – a tax-advantaged way to save for college. In some states, provided you stay within certain limits, it can also be used to pay for qualified K-12 expenses and registered apprenticeships. Consult your tax professional about your situation. You also may want to establish a custodial account, known as either UTMA or UGMA. Some earnings in this account will be taxed at the child’s income tax rate. And if your children have any taxable compensation, you might open an IRA on their behalf and offer to match some of their contributions as an incentive. You can’t contribute directly to the IRA yourself, but you can give your kids money for that purpose. On Father’s Day, you can show appreciation for the gifts you receive from your children. But by investing in their future, […]
Ask the Experts: What can I expect from a financial review?
The following information is provided by Carol Crowley: Edward Jones Financial Advisor The COVID-19 pandemic is, hopefully, just a once-in-a-lifetime occurrence, but all sorts of events can rattle the investment world. And changes in your own life also can affect your plans. To prepare yourself for whatever tomorrow may hold, you may want to get some professional help. A financial advisor will look holistically at your life – your family situation, your career, your hopes and dreams, your instincts about saving and spending money, your risk tolerance and other factors. So, during your initial meeting, and at subsequent reviews afterward, an advisor will discuss a variety of issues. For example, are you making adequate progress toward your financial objectives? Have there been changes in your family, such as the arrival of a new child or the need to provide caregiving for elderly parents? Have you decided to change your retirement plans? As you work toward your goals, you may find it challenging to navigate the financial markets and respond to the changes in your life – but you don’t have to go it alone. And working with a financial advisor can help smooth your journey.
Craftworks Featured Artist of the Week
Craftworks sells a variety of unique, handmade gifts from local artists as well as artist across the country. Michael G. creates custom handcrafted pieces designed and engineered with care and precision. Everything is handcrafted in Rhode Island and made with the finest woods from around the world, including Peruvian walnut, American cherry, African mahogany, hard maple, sapele, bloodwood, purpleheart, and curly maple. Here are a few of Michael’s products that are featured at Craftworks in store or online:
Acupuncture Acupuncture Can Support You Through These Big & Stressful Transitional Times!
The following post comes from Open Circle Acupuncture and Healing Does anyone feel like they are on a roller coaster of transitions right now? Kids are headed back to school, parents trying to juggle work & home again, many wanting to open up and leave the house again, but not sure how to navigate it all? If you are like many of our patients right now, it can all be very stressful and that affects everything you do. Springtime is always a big transition from the most ‘yin’ internal time of winter to sprouting our leaves and starting to emerge into the world again. This year, that transition is even more intense and challenging considering that it’s been for many, more than a year since we have ’emerged’ into the world. Some children are going back to school for the first time in a year! Newly vaccinated seniors are excited about the prospect of travel & outings, but many are also overwhelmed by it all. If you’ve had acupuncture, you know how great it is for stress & emotional balance. When you are centered, everything else in your life (from school, to childcare, to work, to socializing) are all going […]
Meet the Craftworks Artist: Bev’s Baskets
Craftworks sells a variety of unique, handmade gifts from local artists as well as artist across the country. Beverly creates the most beautiful baskets with intricate designs right here in Northborough! Her craftsmanship is exquisite and Bev’s Baskets are appealing both for their aesthetics and for being suitable for a variety of uses. She has also been known to teach a class or two at the shop as well. Here are a few of Bev’s products that are featured at Craftworks in store or online:
Ask the Experts: What Do Rising Bond Yields Mean to Investors?
The following response was provided by Carol Crowley, Edward Jones Financial Advisor If you follow the financial news even casually, you may know that bond yields have been rising since the year began. What does this mean to you, as an individual investor? It might be positive news – the 10-year Treasury yield is usually a good indicator of investors’ confidence about the economic outlook. However, sharp jumps in these yields certainly can cause sudden pullbacks in stock prices, as has occurred recently. But such drops often prove to be short-lived, with stocks eventually rallying. Keep in mind, though, that bond yields and interest rates are closely related, so if interest rates also go up, the value of your existing bonds could drop. On the other hand, rising interest rates can help and hurt stock prices, depending on the type of industries involved. Overall, you’re better off not making drastic changes to your portfolio in anticipation of interest rate movements. Instead, stick with a personalized, long-term investment strategy based on your individual goals, risk tolerance and time horizon. Ultimately, your moves – not external forces – drive investment success.
Start Healing Your Covid-19 Trauma (even if you don’t think you have any….)
This past weekend I had the great, good fortune to go away for the weekend on a winter getaway with a friend of mine. It’s an amazing ‘off the grid’ retreat where we hike in with all of our stuff, to a beautiful cabin to spend the weekend. With only wood heat and candle light, the stillness and silence is so deep. We’ve gone every winter for the past three years, but this year felt different. Without even realizing how much I needed some time to let go, release and nourish my spirit, I started to fully grasp how much I had been ‘holding on’ throughout the craziness of this past year. Between the pandemic itself, three kids schooling from home and managing a business during covid, to say that this year has been a lot, would definitely be an understatement. Now don’t get me wrong, I’m very aware of how blessed I have been throughout all of this. Our family remaining employed, healthy and safely together has been an amazing gift and there have been many silver linings. But that does not take away from the fact that it’s been stressful, not just for me, but in a more […]
Time for Some Financial Spring Cleaning
The following advice comes from Carol Crowley, Edward Jones Financial Advisor Spring is just about here. This year, as you tidy up your home and surroundings, why not also consider some financial spring cleaning? You could begin by “de-cluttering” your investment portfolio and replacing investments that no longer meet your needs with ones that do. It might also be a good move to “dust off” your investment strategy. Over time, this strategy may have gotten outdated, especially if you’ve experienced significant changes in your life, such as a new job, a new child or even a new plan for retirement. By periodically reviewing your investment strategy, you’ll be able to clarify your vision for the future. Finally, just as you clear your garage or storage areas of hazardous objects, you may want to check for dangers in your financial situation. To name just one: Are you leaving your family unprotected in case something happens to you? To help avoid this problem, make sure your protection strategy is up to date. Financial spring cleaning can pay off – and you don’t even need a broom!
Pediatric Acupuncture: Powerful, Simple, Relaxing & Pain-Free!
The following expert advice is provided by Open Circle Acupuncture and Healing. Many people don’t realize that acupuncture & Chinese medicine are an amazing treatment option for children. Our body is naturally designed to self-heal and self-regulate. At a young age, children tend to heal very quickly because they have incredible blood flow and receptive energy. In fact, children tend to respond quicker than adults to the treatments for that very reason! Below are some of the most commonly asked questions about pediatric acupuncture. We hope that this dispels some of the myths and inspires some of you to give it a try for yourself or someone in your family! 1. What age groups do you treat with pediatric acupuncture? Treatment with this style of non-insertive and gentle insertive techniques are for newborn to age 10. Of course, this is a general rule and sometimes exceptions are made for some older children. Generally, children age 10 and up can be treated in our group space with more traditional acupuncture. 2. Does my child need to have something wrong with them in order to receive acupuncture? One of the basic tenants of Chinese medicine is that prevention is always better that […]
Ask the Experts: How Do I Protect My Family from Long-term Care Costs?
The following post was provided by Carol Crowley: Edward Jones Financial Advisor Like everyone, you want to remain physically and financially independent throughout your life. But if you lose some of this freedom, the last thing you’d want is to become a burden on your family. How can you keep this from happening? First of all, you need to be aware of the risk. Someone turning 65 today has almost a 70 percent chance of eventually needing some type of long-term care, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Of course, this doesn’t necessarily mean that you face that 70 percent likelihood. In reality, you have either a zero percent chance of requiring long-term care (you’ll never need it) or a 100 percent chance (you’ll definitely need it). Nonetheless, if you think you’ve got that zero percent chance, you’re taking a gamble – and it could be a big one, because long-term care is expensive. The median annual cost for a private room in a nursing home is over $102,000, according to Genworth, an insurance company. Other long-term care services, such as those provided by a home health care aide, also don’t come cheaply. Furthermore, you can’t […]