Editor’s Note: Taking Care
Well, we’re right in it now. Summer and hurricane season, the double whammy. This can be a rough time for some people, both because of the unbearably long hot days and the memories of past hurricanes.
It’s hard to believe that 20 years have passed since Hurricane Katrina came. For some of us August can be an especially difficult month, and every time a new hurricane pops up on the radar, we tend to feel on edge. Jittery. At least, I know I do. Hurricanes Katrina in August 2005 and Rita in September 2005 were life-changing for many. And while I know being called resilient doesn’t necessarily make anyone feel better about that time in our lives, the experience for sure gives those who went through it a linchpin to situate their timeline. Shared experiences, shared trauma, shared stories, shared rebuilding or leaving — the time before Katrina and after.
My hope for this season is for a quiet, peaceful few months for everyone. Staying cool and doing all the things that bring joy are more important than ever. Self-care should always be a priority but perhaps even more so now.
Being gentle with the mind, body and spirit is central, and in this issue Melanie Warner Spencer speaks with Dr. Franck Mauvais-Jarvis about the challenges older adults have with health and hormones. She dives into myths and misconceptions surrounding hormone replacement therapy and explores what people need to consider.
Another way to relax is to get out of town for a bit. Take a day trip or a road trip. In this issue, we explore what’s new and interesting in Hammond, an hour’s drive from New Orleans, and Beavers Bend, Oklahoma, less than a few hours from Shreveport. There’s nothing better than packing an ice chest with drinks and snacks, taking an overnight bag and hitting the road — especially getting on the highway before dawn and seeing the sun come up. Amazing. Whether it’s escaping for a bit of cool respite or just a change of scenery, a little adventure is always fun.
I hope everyone stays safe and cool this month. Take care!
