Tuesday, September 20, 2011

Life Is Good

Did You Know…
-2/3 of American children & adolescents reported experiencing a traumatic event by the time they turned 16
-The life expectancy of adults who experienced 6 or more types of abuse or household dysfunction as children was reduced by 20 years (according to a study done by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control & Prevention).

I’m talking about the children in our country who will grow to be the future. As healthy, busy individuals, we are often blinded to the thought that early childhood trauma not only exists, but is a serious health issue that hurts many children every year right here in America. The Playmakers at the Life Is Good Foundation have researched this silent epidemic & firmly believe that while childhood trauma can hurt, “play can heal.” Playmakers are devoted to helping children who suffer from life-threatening challenges (such as illness, poverty & violence) to overcome their emotional scars and develop into successful & happy adults through play.



Play is the medium through which human beings are given the chance to discover, laugh, form relationships, experience joy and develop a foundation of self-worth and happiness. Play doesn’t only nurture children, it nurtures adults too…it’s part of the reason why exercise is so important. We need physical activity in our lives to keep our chemical makeup in balance. It’s not only about losing weight, it’s about living healthy and keeping our mind clear, positive & stimulated. Don’t you think clearer, breathe deeper, and feel more relieved/relaxed after you exercise? I’m not even talking about a hardcore workout…even if it’s just a walk or using the stairs instead of the elevator – our bodies react instantaneously and we can feel the difference.

Now, combine that feeling of euphoria after a good workout with giving back to children in need & imagine how great you could feel! I know sometimes we tend to focus on giving back to children in less fortunate countries & organizations that help other parts of the world. While those types of community service endeavors are undoubtedly meaningful and important, it is also important to focus on helping the impoverished that live on our home soil. While you may have a roof over your head every night, realize that there are others who live amongst you that are not so fortunate.
This weekend the Life Is Good foundation is hosting a festival, right here in MA! The festival will include music, food, and lots of fun physical activities for adults & children (like rock climbing & football). Not only will you be able to enjoy the beautiful outdoors and engage in some fun physical activity, but you’ll also be contributing to a great cause - 100% of proceeds will go to children in this country who are in need of our help. Spread playtime to kids who really deserve it =)

Use community service, the start of this beautiful new fall season, & children who need you to motivate you this weekend - do something for yourself and in doing so, something for others too! Life Is too Good to not get involved in great opportunities like this one.

For more information, visit: http://www.lifeisgood.com/festivals/

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