Tag: 9 ways of vibrant living

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08.10.23 | Arts & Culture

The Art of Storytelling: Maya Angelou

At Sage Collective, we hold dear the voices that share tales of human spirit, challenges, and victories. Among these, Maya Angelou stands tall, with her stories resonating through time, offering glimpses of her life and the wider journey. Through Angelou, we gain a fresh perspective on the art of storytelling.

Bearing Witness to Life’s Highs and Lows

Like Gorman, the power of Angelou’s tales comes from her genuine honesty. “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings,” tells of the difficulties she faced, from facing prejudice to personal pain. Yet, she chose to openly share, lighting the way for countless silent stories. By sharing her struggles, she magnifies her successes, showing us that every part of our journey matters. Every story, whether personal or broad, has a universal echo. Through Angelou, we connect with emotions and experiences that touch hearts worldwide.

A Dance of Words and Rhythm

Angelou’s writing draws us in, but her poetry is where her words truly dance. Poems like “Still I Rise” and “Phenomenal Woman” enchant with their rhythmic flow and uplifting messages. When shaping your story, let Angelou inspire you. Fill your narrative with rhythm and emotion, creating an experience rather than just a tale.

Driving Forward With Purpose

A defining trait of Angelou’s work is its clear intent. She didn’t just share life moments; she shared lessons. “Still I Rise” isn’t just her journey—it’s a rallying cry for the oppressed. She shows that stories can do more than entertain; they can ignite change. When you write, know that your words have the power to move hearts and minds.

Lessons from Angelou on Storytelling

Angelou’s storytelling imparts wisdom beyond the narrative. She teaches us the importance of authenticity—stories need to come from a place of truth. She reminds us to embrace both pain and joy, as both are essential parts of the human experience. Moreover, her work emphasizes the need for stories to have a purpose, a message that drives them forward.

In wrapping up, exploring storytelling through Angelou’s eyes reveals tales that mirror shared hopes, challenges, and dreams. Taking a leaf from her book, let’s believe that our stories, grounded in truth and purpose, can touch and change lives.

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07.27.23 | Community

The Art of Slow Living: Embracing Mindfulness and Minimalism This Summer

As we bask in the long summer days, there’s a growing awareness of the need for slower, more intentional living. Building on our previous discussions about mindfulness, let’s explore how to harness the power of mindfulness and minimalism to experience a truly transformative summer. This season, we encourage you to embrace the ‘Art of Slow Living.’ Just as the sun takes its time to set, painting the sky, we too can bask in the moment, savoring the world around us. But how do we do this? Let’s delve into the practices of mindfulness and minimalism.

Mindfulness
We’ve previously touched on the importance of mindful movement practices like Tai Chi, Yoga, and Qigong in fostering vibrant living. This summer, we encourage you to take this concept of mindfulness a step further. Beyond just movement, try to infuse mindfulness throughout your day. Feel the warm breeze on your skin, taste the sweet fruits of the season and listen to the sounds of the outdoors. Each moment presents an opportunity to be fully present, and there is no better time than a summer day to cultivate this habit.

Practices like Yoga and Qigong allow for a deeper connection with oneself and the world around us. These spiritual practices can be incredibly potent when taken outdoors during summer. Perhaps a gentle yoga sequence by the beach or a quiet Qigong session in a blooming park? Take this summer as an opportunity to deepen these practices, fostering a larger appreciation for the beauty that surrounds you.

Minimalism
Alongside mindfulness, we invite you to explore minimalism this summer. Contrary to popular belief, minimalism is not about denying ourselves pleasures or living a bare-bones lifestyle. It’s about making conscious choices about what we allow into our lives, focusing more on experiences and relationships than on possessions.

How can you embrace minimalism this summer? Try decluttering your home, simplifying your diet to include more fresh, local produce, or choosing experiences over material possessions. After all, a hike with loved ones or a day spent exploring a new town leaves a longer-lasting impression than the newest gadget.

By merging mindfulness and minimalism, you create space for meaningful connections – with others, with the natural world, and, most importantly, with yourself. Slow down and savor the summer in all its glory, embracing the art of living more with less. Embrace this season of warmth and growth, knowing that the journey to vibrant living is one step at a time, one mindful moment at a time. Summer is your canvas – paint it with mindfulness and minimalism, and see the masterpiece that unfolds.

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07.13.23 | Sage Advice®

What Amanda Gorman Teaches Us About Storytelling

At Sage Collective, we’re all about those personal journeys and the stories they create. And when someone like Amanda Gorman uses her talent to share those journeys, it’s impossible not to sit up and take notice. Gorman, with her poignant words and masterful storytelling, has offered us some great lessons on expression.

Telling Your Truth with Boldness

Gorman’s work brings forth an essential aspect of storytelling: raw, unfiltered honesty. A great example of this is her inaugural poem, “The Hill We Climb,” where she candidly paints the picture of a nation divided, and uses this as a canvas to craft a vision of unity and resilience. It’s more than a reflection on America’s political scene—it’s an intensely personal story of hope and unwavering determination. This courageous sharing of her perspective is a reminder for us all: the bumpy roads on our journey deserve as much recognition as our triumphs.

One thing that sets Gorman’s storytelling apart is her knack for weaving her personal stories into universal narratives. Despite being rooted in specific experiences, her stories strike a chord worldwide— a testament to the shared human experience we all are a part of.

So, when you’re sharing your story, remember, your unique journey is part of the much larger, grand tapestry of human life. Seek those threads that tie your personal experiences to the bigger narratives.

Harnessing the Power of Poetry

Gorman’s “The Hill We Climb” also highlights the compelling allure of poetry in storytelling. The rhythmic cadence, vivid imagery, and intricate metaphors all come together to create a concise, yet deeply moving expression of her experiences and emotions.

When sharing your story, don’t hesitate to employ a touch of the poetic. It’s not about composing verses, but more about using language in an artful way to add layers and richness to your narrative.

Inspiring Change Through Storytelling

What truly makes Gorman’s work stand out is how it transcends the beauty of language; each poem, each story, is a call to action. “The Hill We Climb” is more than just a reflection of the present—it’s a clarion call for a better tomorrow. In this, Gorman teaches us that our stories aren’t just relics of the past, but catalysts for inspiring change. By sharing your experiences, you too can foster empathy, understanding, and even trigger action. Your story holds the power to inspire others and spark transformation.

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07.06.23 | Arts & Culture

Digital Essentials: Navigating The Larger Web

For many older adults, engaging with digital technology is a journey of discovery and empowerment. It’s like learning to cook a new dish – it can be daunting at first, but with the right ingredients and recipe, it’s a joy to create something wonderful. Just as we advocate for a proactive approach to vibrant living, taking an active role in understanding and using digital tools can help older adults stay connected, continue learning, and contribute meaningfully in today’s digital age.

Digital Navigation: Walking Through the Web

Walking is fundamental to our daily lives. It’s how we get from one place to another. Similarly, browsing the internet is a form of digital walking. We navigate from one website to another, finding information, connecting with loved ones, shopping, or learning new things. Search engines like Google are the shoes that protect our feet, guiding us to where we want to go. However, remember to tread wisely and stay on safe paths, using websites that are secure (often marked with a small padlock icon near the URL) and avoiding clicking on suspicious links, just like you would avoid walking on a slippery surface.

Online Learning: Dressing Your Mind

Just as we dress ourselves in different clothes for different occasions, we dress our minds with knowledge for various scenarios. Digital tools offer older adults myriad ways to continue learning. Educational platforms such as Coursera, Khan Academy, or even YouTube provide a wealth of knowledge at our fingertips, on topics ranging from history to cooking, to learning a new language. Donning this digital attire can enhance one’s sense of purpose, encouraging continuous learning and curiosity.

Digital Communication: The Nutritious Social Meal

Eating is essential for physical health, and social communication is food for our emotional well-being. In a digital context, tools like Facebook, Skype, or Zoom are akin to nourishing meals. They provide essential social interaction, enabling engagement with family, friends, and social groups from the comfort of home. Digital communication can also reduce stress, offering an easy way to stay connected and engaged, even when physical distance might make it challenging.

Setting Intentions: A Digital Agenda

In the same vein as setting life goals, having a digital agenda can help guide your online activities. This could be as simple as deciding to spend ten minutes each day learning a new skill on YouTube, or setting aside time each week to video call with family. Your digital intentions should serve your broader life goals and promote vibrant living.

Taking Control: Understanding and Mastering Digital Tools

Mastering the digital world might seem overwhelming, just as learning new daily tasks can be. But remember, it’s okay to take it one step at a time. Start with basic tasks, like sending an email or making a video call, and gradually add more complex activities, such as online shopping or digital banking. You are in control of your digital journey, just as you are in your daily life.

At Sage Collective, we believe that understanding and using digital tools can significantly enhance our model of vibrant living. It offers endless possibilities for learning, connection, and engagement. Just as we actively participate in our daily lives, we can also take an active role in navigating the larger network of the web, leading to a more enriched and vibrant life. It’s never too late to embark on this digital journey.

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06.22.23 | Arts & Culture

Juneteenth: Honoring the Past, Embracing the Present, Envisioning a Vibrant Future

In the spirit of learning and understanding that fuels the Sage Collective, we’re delving into a significant moment in our shared American history, a moment that anchors us to our past as it guides us towards a more inclusive future – Juneteenth.

The essence of Juneteenth is one of freedom and liberation, dating back to 1863 when the Emancipation Proclamation declared enslaved African Americans free. The truth of this newfound freedom, however, took two years to permeate every state, with Texas being the last to hear the news. Hence, Juneteenth was born, officially recognized by President Joe Biden on June 17, 2021.

The celebration of Juneteenth, while filled with joy and reverence for the resilience of freedmen and freedwomen, was not devoid of strife. However, the spirit of determination and unity endured. By pooling resources, formerly enslaved people bought land in 1950, creating Emancipation Park in Houston, Texas, a testament to their collective resilience and a place for future Juneteenth celebrations.

The Juneteenth flag, designed by Ms. L.J. Graff, embodies this shared history and vision. Its colors echo the American flag, asserting the rightful place of freed people and their descendants as American citizens. The central star pays homage to Texas, while the bursting new star symbolizes a new dawn and new freedom.

As we honor Juneteenth, we also acknowledge the complex emotions that accompany this day of celebration. The weight of history can bring feelings of anxiety and stress, emotions we at Sage Collective encourage our members to acknowledge and discuss. We are committed to creating a safe space for these dialogues, believing that understanding our past is a crucial step toward shaping a vibrant and inclusive future.

Juneteenth, much like our mission at Sage Collective, is about embracing freedom and fostering vibrant living for all. It reminds us that freedom is also about the liberation of the mind and spirit. It’s about the courage to acknowledge the pain of our past, the determination to celebrate the progress of our present, and the vision to foster a future of justice, inclusivity, and vibrant living for everyone.

Join us as we commemorate Juneteenth this month and every month, and let its history and values inspire us as we continue to work towards a future where everyone can live vibrantly.

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06.08.23 | Sage Advice®

Adapting to The Internet Highway: A User-Friendly Guide for Older Adults to Embrace the Digital World

We often refer to the internet as a modern highway. Imagine jumping onto the freeway of knowledge and connections, taking exits to destinations of choice, and disembarking when you’ve reached your desired location. The concept may seem daunting, especially for those of us who didn’t grow up in this digital age, but fear not! Just like learning to navigate any new terrain, once you understand the rules of the road, the journey becomes more manageable. 

However, the internet highway, much like any journey, comes with its share of challenges and potential roadblocks. But we firmly believe that it is never too late to embrace this digital world, and doing so can unlock new realms of communication, knowledge, and convenience. Here are some tips to ensure a smooth ride.

Learn the Basic Tools:

Your digital journey begins with understanding the basic tools. Computers, smartphones, and tablets are your vehicles on the Internet highway. Start by familiarizing yourself with their functionalities, like turning them on/off, charging, and installing applications. 

Understanding the Online Map:

Search engines like Google are the maps of the digital world. They help you locate the information or services you’re looking for. Entering words related to your topic of interest (keywords) will lead you to numerous websites, images, news, and more. On your journey, these tools within the online map will be useful resources in helping you better understand all of the directions you can travel. 

Safety First:

As on any journey, safety is paramount. Beware of digital road hazards like phishing (fraudulent attempts to obtain sensitive information) and cyberbullying. Always ensure you’re visiting secure websites (look for ‘https’ in the URL), avoid sharing sensitive personal information online, and maintain strong, unique passwords for all your accounts. 

Social Media as Scenic Routes:

Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter are excellent places to connect with loved ones, meet new friends, or join groups of interest. However, always be mindful of the information you share publicly. 

Embrace Online Learning:

Many institutions offer free or inexpensive courses online, from learning new languages to picking up cooking tips. Websites like Khan Academy, Coursera, or TED Talks are wonderful resources to broaden your horizons right from the comfort of your home. 

Tech Support is Your Roadside Assistance:

Finally, remember that there’s always help available. From the tech-savvy grandchild to the friendly helpline of your device manufacturer, don’t hesitate to ask for help if you find yourself lost on the digital highway.

Embracing the internet highway isn’t about leaving the past behind but about enriching our lives with the tools and resources of the present. Remember, the journey is just as important as the destination. Happy traveling!

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06.01.23 | Sage Advice®

Travel Trips and Destinations for Summer Adventurers

Get ready to embrace the magic of summer! It’s the perfect season to awaken your inner explorer, savor the thrill of freedom, and make every moment count. Remember, travel isn’t just about moving from point A to point B; it’s about learning continuously and sprinkling your life with unforgettable memories. But, as we all know, every adventure carries its share of surprises. Don’t fret, though – we’ve got you covered. Dive into our expertly-curated travel tips and discover three destinations that will inevitably satisfy your spirit of adventure this summer:

Starved Rock State Park, Illinois

First on our list is a day trip to Starved Rock State Park, about two hours west of Chicago. The park boasts some of the finest natural attractions in the Midwest, with an impressive 18 canyons, scenic waterfalls, and a wide variety of wildlife. Take a guided tour or embark on a self-guided adventure, it’s the perfect place to commune with nature and appreciate the beauty of the Illinois Valley.

Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

If a serene lakeside excursion suits your fancy, consider visiting Lake Geneva in Wisconsin. Only a short hour and a half drive from Chicago, it’s a haven of relaxation and natural beauty. Here, you’ll find opportunities to indulge in boating, fishing, or simply a picnic by the waterside. For a real treat, take a historical tour on the lake’s mail boat, a century-old tradition that offers a unique perspective of the stunning lakeside homes.

Michigan City, Indiana

Finally, a day trip to Michigan City in Indiana offers a blend of city attractions and natural beauty, only an hour away from Chicago. Enjoy the vibrant arts scene at the Lubeznik Center for the Arts, explore the beautiful Washington Park Zoo nestled on a sand dune overlooking Lake Michigan, or stroll the colorful boutiques and antique shops of the Uptown Arts District. 

When embarking on these adventures, remember to consider your comfort and health. Carry water, snacks, and any required medication. Dress for the weather, and wear comfortable footwear suitable for the activity you’re planning. Whether you’re journeying solo or with loved ones, each trip offers a unique opportunity for exploration, learning, and a touch of adventure. 

So, here’s our Sage Advice: take the summer its hands and step out into the world. There’s a lot to see, much to learn, and countless experiences waiting just for you. Exploration is not just about discovering new places, but also about discovering ourselves. After all, age is just a number, and the world is our timeless playground. Embrace your independence, pursue vibrant living, and make the most of the educational experiences that these journeys offer.

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05.18.23 | Community

The Benefits of Lifelong Learning: Ways You Can Stay Curious and Keep Learning at Any Age

In today’s world, learning is not just confined to the classroom. Nor is it a phase that fades after our school years. Learning is an exhilarating journey of discovery that can and should continue throughout our entire lives. At Sage Collective, we believe in the power of lifelong learning to nourish the mind, invigorate the spirit, and ultimately, facilitate a vibrant and high-quality living experience. 

Embrace the Ever-Curious Mind 

Being curious is about wanting to know more. It’s about asking questions and finding answers, about anything that interests you. This could be about the latest gadget or an old piece of history. Following your curiosity can lead to exciting discoveries and new knowledge. Remember, no matter how old you are, there’s always something new to learn.

The Benefits of Lifelong Learning

Throughout our programming, we’ve observed firsthand the transformative power of lifelong learning. It fosters a sense of purpose, promotes mental agility, and bolsters self-confidence. Lifelong learning can also help combat loneliness by providing opportunities to meet like-minded peers, thus forming enriching relationships. Moreover, being actively engaged in learning contributes to your overall wellbeing. Research suggests that stimulating your mind can help slow cognitive decline and improve memory function. It keeps the brain agile and the spirit youthful. 

Ways to Keep Learning 

So, how do you maintain a lifelong commitment to learning? The key is to integrate learning into your daily routine. Here are a few suggestions: 

  1. Reading: Books, newspapers, magazines or even online articles can take you on a journey of discovery. Reading not only expands your knowledge, but also stimulates your imagination and enhances your understanding of the world. 
  2. Online Courses: With advancements in technology, you can learn almost anything from the comfort of your home. Websites like Coursera or Khan Academy offer courses on a variety of subjects. There’s also TED Talks, which offers thought-provoking presentations on countless topics. 
  3. Local Community Events: Many communities host educational workshops, lectures, and events. These gatherings provide a great opportunity to learn something new, meet people with similar interests, and actively engage in your community. 
  4. Hobbies: Hobbies like painting, gardening or playing a musical instrument are not just enjoyable, but also educational. They can help develop new skills, stimulate creativity, and provide a sense of accomplishment. 
  5. Travel: If circumstances allow, traveling can be a great way to learn. Experiencing new cultures, tasting different foods, and learning new languages can provide a firsthand education that’s impossible to get in any other way. 

Remember, lifelong learning doesn’t mean becoming an expert in every subject. It’s about maintaining an open mind, staying curious, and enjoying the process of discovery. The joy lies in the journey, not just the destination. 

At Sage Collective, we encourage and celebrate a culture of continuous learning, believing it to be an essential component of vibrant living. We strive to create opportunities for our residents to explore, grow, and flourish. By choosing to stay curious and keep learning, you are not just passing time; you are creating a meaningful, engaged future. Here’s to celebrating the sage in all of us!

Sage Collective's Vibrant Living Program at Chicago Commons
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05.11.23 | Sage Advice®

Mindful Movement: Exploring Tai Chi, Yoga and Qigong as Spiritual Practices

As we age, the importance of mindfulness becomes increasingly evident in fostering a vibrant and fulfilling life. By engaging in mindful movement practices like Tai Chi, Yoga, and Qigong, older adults can unlock numerous physical, mental, and emotional benefits. These spiritual practices not only empower individuals to lead healthier and more connected lives but also serve as valuable resources for personal growth and self-discovery. Join us as we delve into the world of Tai Chi, Yoga, and Qigong to explore how these practices promote a life of wellness, empowerment, and personal growth for anyone practicing them: 

Tai Chi

Often referred to as “meditation in motion,” Tai Chi is a Chinese martial art that combines slow, deliberate movements with deep, focused breathing. This practice is an excellent option for older adults seeking a vibrant lifestyle, as it promotes flexibility, balance, and strength while reducing stress and anxiety. By engaging in Tai Chi, individuals can improve their overall well-being and connect with others in a supportive, communal environment. Furthermore, the emphasis on mindful movement and inner tranquility makes Tai Chi a powerful spiritual practice, fostering a deeper understanding of oneself and the world.

Yoga

Yoga is an ancient Indian practice that harmonizes the mind, body, and spirit through a combination of physical postures, breath control, and meditation. For older adults looking to enhance their vibrant living experience, yoga offers numerous benefits, including increased flexibility, strength, balance, and relaxation. Yoga also fosters mental and emotional well-being by promoting mindfulness and stress reduction. By offering various styles and modifications, individuals can tailor their yoga practice to their needs and abilities, empowering them to explore their personal growth journey. Through this exploration, Yoga becomes not just a physical exercise, but a spiritual practice that allows older adults to connect with their inner selves and the world around them.

Qigong

Qigong is a Chinese healing art that integrates physical postures, breathing techniques, and focused intention to cultivate and balance the body’s vital energy, or “qi.” This gentle practice can greatly benefit older adults by enhancing overall health, reducing stress, and improving balance and coordination, all of which contribute to a more vibrant lifestyle. Additionally, Qigong promotes mental clarity and emotional stability, providing a sense of harmony and interconnectedness with the self and the world. As a spiritual practice, Qigong offers a holistic approach to wellness, empowering older adults to lead more fulfilling and purposeful lives.

Local community centers, gyms, and studios often provide tailored classes for older adults to learn and practice mindful movement disciplines. For those who prefer learning at home, numerous online resources, such as instructional videos and virtual classes, are available on platforms like YouTube and Google. Public libraries and bookstores also offer books and DVDs for various skill levels and abilities. By exploring these resources, older adults can seamlessly incorporate mindful movement into their vibrant daily lives.

Embracing mindful movement practices like Tai Chi, Yoga, and Qigong offers older adults a wealth of physical, mental, and emotional benefits, contributing to a vibrant and fulfilling life. With numerous resources available, there’s no better time to explore these spiritual practices and enhance wellness, empowerment, and personal growth. 

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05.04.23 | Arts & Culture

Five Engaging Hobbies You Can Pick up to Keep Your Mind Active

Growing older doesn’t have to mean slowing down! In fact, our golden years can be an excellent time to embrace new hobbies that challenge our minds and help us live life to the fullest. Engaging in activities that stimulate the mind can help you stay sharp, enhance cognitive function, and add a touch of zest to everyday life. Today, we’re diving into five engaging hobbies that anyone can explore to keep their minds active and their lives vibrant:

Family History Research

Unearthing your family’s past can be a thrilling and rewarding journey. As you dive into genealogy, you’ll develop research skills, learn about history, and discover fascinating stories about your family’s heritage. It’s a wonderful way to connect with distant relatives and preserve family history for future generations. Online resources like Ancestry.com and FamilySearch make it easy to get started, and don’t forget to check out local libraries and historical societies for additional support. 

Photography

Capture the beauty around you with photography! This creative hobby can be enjoyed both indoors and outdoors, giving you the freedom to express yourself artistically. With the increasing accessibility of digital tools and platforms, anyone can explore various photography styles – from stunning landscapes to captivating portraits. Share your work in online photography forums or join a local photography club to meet new friends and learn from fellow enthusiasts. 

Learning a New Language

Say ‘bonjour’ or ‘hola’ to a new language! Picking up a new language can be a delightful challenge, keeping your mind sharp and opening the door to new cultural experiences. Learning a new language not only improves memory and critical thinking skills but can also provide a sense of accomplishment. Online platforms like Duolingo, Rosetta Stone, and Babbel make it easy to get started, and you can also join local language classes or conversation groups for a more interactive experience. 

Experimental Cooking 

Spice up your life by venturing into the world of experimental cooking. This delicious hobby allows you to nurture your creativity while tantalizing your taste buds. Develop your culinary skills by exploring new recipes, ingredients, and cooking techniques. Travel the world through your kitchen by trying out international cuisines or challenge yourself with unique cooking methods. Who knows, you might just discover your next signature dish! 

Bonsai Artistry

Enter the tranquil world of bonsai, where the cultivation and maintenance of miniature trees transform into living art. This unique and captivating hobby requires attention to detail, an appreciation for the natural world, and a touch of mindfulness. As you nurture your bonsai creations, you’ll find a sense of relaxation and accomplishment. Resources like books, online tutorials, and local bonsai clubs can help you embark on this beautiful journey.

Whether you’re exploring your family’s past, capturing the world through photography, learning a new language, whipping up culinary delights, or nurturing miniature trees, there’s a hobby for everyone to enjoy. So go ahead, embrace these activities and add a touch of vibrancy to your golden years!

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