Issue #134

Top 7 Verified Reasons to Bring Cash for International Travel

I traveled for 14 days in Europe visiting Poland, France, Portugal, and Spain. These are the top verified reasons to bring cash while traveling internationally:

1. Restaurant Tips: We paid by card for most meals. However, in the countries we visited, the card terminal never (99%) gave us the option to leave a tip. The only way to tip is with cash.

2. Attractions / Experiences: Castle and museum exhibitions with onsite ticket offices only took cash payments.

3. Street Vendors / Café: There are plenty of delicious snacks offered by street vendors all around the world. The cost can be cheap, but the vendors usually only accept cash.

4. Shopping: Many vintage shops in Portugal had a cash-only sign, while in Poland, the shop manager was willing to negotiate the price of some keepsakes when paying in cash.

5. Public Restrooms: In many places in Europe, public restrooms charge a small fee, typically payable only in cash.

6. Taxi Ride: Taxi and buses may only accept cash. Make sure you have enough cash for fares, especially where rideshare apps aren't available.

7. Prepare for Emergencies: Card terminals can fail, and credit cards can get fraud-blocked. Having cash ensures you can handle emergencies and make essential purchases without stress or worry.

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Hello Forever Young Readers! Welcome to this week’s edition, where we’re diving into timely topics to support your well-being and peace of mind. First, we offer guidance on navigating post-election emotions, whether your candidate won or lost. Then, get ready for a fresh start with our autumn cleaning tips to help you declutter and create a stress-free home. Finally, as the days get shorter, explore ways to maintain mental wellness with our seasonal mental health check-in. Here’s to embracing each season with clarity, balance, and positivity! Enjoy reading!

Trivia Quiz

In which decade was the first pacemaker implanted in a human? [You can confirm the correct answer at the bottom of the newsletter.]

Personal Growth Journey

Navigating Post-Election Emotions: Finding Balance Whether Your Candidate Won or Lost

Elections can stir up strong emotions, and the days following can be challenging whether your candidate won or lost. The outcome can bring a mix of excitement, disappointment, or even frustration. Here are some tips to navigate the post-election season while maintaining emotional balance and focusing on the bigger picture.

If Your Candidate Won 

If your candidate secured the win, you may feel a sense of relief, excitement, or renewed hope for the future. It’s natural to feel optimistic and hopeful about the coming changes, but it’s also important to remember that the election outcome may have been distressing for others. Celebrate respectfully and seek to listen to different perspectives. Recognize that everyone wants a better future, even if they envision it differently. Moving forward with empathy helps foster a sense of unity and compassion within your community and friendships, regardless of political views.

If Your Candidate Did Not Win 

If the results didn’t align with your hopes, feelings of disappointment, sadness, or worry are completely normal. Take time to process these emotions—share your thoughts with friends or family who can empathize. Channeling these feelings into something positive can help: focus on what you can control, such as volunteering, staying informed, or supporting causes that reflect your values. Remember that no single election defines the future entirely; communities, advocacy groups, and all individuals play vital roles in shaping the future.

Coping Tips for Everyone 

Regardless of the outcome, staying grounded is essential. First, take a break from the news if it feels overwhelming. Engaging in a relaxing activity, like reading, gardening, or spending time with loved ones, can be a welcome distraction. Consider taking time for self-care practices that help you feel calm, such as mindfulness exercises or a walk in nature. It can also be helpful to connect with friends or family members who offer support and understanding, regardless of political leanings.

Elections, with all their ups and downs, are part of a constantly evolving democracy. By focusing on unity, respectful conversation, and self-care, we can collectively move forward, bringing positive energy and compassion to our communities.

Senior Lifestyle Tips

Autumn Cleaning: Decluttering for a Stress-Free Home

As fall brings cooler weather and cozy indoor activities, it’s an ideal time to tackle some decluttering to create a more serene and organized living space. Decluttering can reduce stress, make day-to-day tasks easier, and create a more enjoyable home environment. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you simplify your space this autumn.

1. Start Small and Set Goals
Decluttering can feel overwhelming, so start with one small area at a time. Choose a space that will have an immediate impact, like a kitchen counter, entryway, or bedroom closet. Setting achievable goals for each area will give you a sense of accomplishment and motivation to keep going.

2. Sort and Categorize
As you begin, create categories: “Keep,” “Donate,” “Recycle,” “Sell,” and “Discard.” Go through each item carefully, asking yourself if it’s something you use, love, or need. Items in good condition that no longer serve you can often find a second home through donation. Recycling and discarding items responsibly helps reduce clutter without adding to landfill waste.

3. Organize by Usage
After sorting, organize items based on how often you use them. In the kitchen, for example, place frequently used items on easily accessible shelves and store less-used items higher up or in the back. The same principle works for the bathroom, home office, or closets: keep essentials within reach, and store away seasonal or seldom-used items.

4. Use Storage Solutions
Consider storage options that keep items out of sight but easy to access. Baskets, bins, and drawer organizers can be incredibly helpful for keeping items in order while reducing visual clutter. Clear containers can be especially useful to see what’s inside, making it easier to find what you need without rummaging.

5. Maintain a Decluttering Routine
Decluttering doesn’t have to be a one-time event. By maintaining a regular schedule—weekly, monthly, or seasonally—you can prevent items from building up again. A few minutes each week dedicated to tidying can help keep your space organized year-round.

Taking the time this fall to declutter and organize can make your home feel lighter, calmer, and more inviting. With a clean and organized space, you’ll be ready to enjoy cozy autumn days with a sense of peace and comfort.

Health and Wellbeing Tips

Mental Health Check-In: Coping with Seasonal Changes

As the days grow shorter and temperatures drop, many people experience shifts in mood and energy levels. For seniors, these seasonal changes can sometimes feel particularly challenging, leading to a sense of isolation, moodiness, or what’s known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). The good news is that there are effective ways to support mental health during this seasonal transition.

1. Embrace Natural Light
Sunlight can significantly impact mood by helping regulate our internal clock and increasing serotonin, a feel-good brain chemical. On bright days, take time to enjoy the sun, even if it’s chilly. A short walk outside, sitting by a sunny window, or sipping tea on your porch can boost your mood and help you feel more energized.

2. Keep Moving
Staying active isn’t only good for physical health—it’s essential for mental well-being. Exercise releases endorphins, which naturally improve mood and reduce stress. When it’s too cold outside, consider indoor activities like chair yoga, stretching, or following an exercise video. Even light activity like dancing to favorite tunes or walking indoors can make a positive difference.

3. Maintain Social Connections
Isolation can often feel more pronounced in the fall and winter months, so keeping up with social connections is important. Reach out to family and friends regularly, schedule calls, or even host small get-togethers at home. Joining community groups or online classes is another great way to stay connected. Staying social reduces loneliness and provides an emotional lift.

4. Engage in Hobbies
Keeping mentally stimulated can improve mood and provide a positive focus during the darker months. Whether it’s reading, painting, crafting, or learning something new, engaging in activities you love can bring a sense of accomplishment and joy. Setting aside time daily for hobbies can help keep the mind sharp and spirits high.

5. Practice Mindfulness and Gratitude
Mindfulness practices like meditation, deep breathing, or journaling help reduce stress and keep you present. Similarly, practicing gratitude can improve overall outlook by focusing on positive aspects of life. Starting each day by listing three things you’re grateful for can be a powerful way to cultivate a positive mindset.

Taking a proactive approach to mental health as the seasons change can help you stay balanced and content. With a few mindful practices, you can nurture your emotional well-being and fully enjoy the cozy comforts of fall and winter.

Trivia Quiz Answer: The first successful pacemaker was implanted in 1958. [British Heart Foundation / https://www.bhf.org.uk]

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