Fill My Cup Appeal

1. Laugh to Your Heart's Delight

Studies show that laughter expands blood vessels, and endorphins released in response to laughter activate the chemical nitric oxide in the inner lining of our blood vessels to promote vascular health  

2. Age Artfully

Research shows that seniors engaged in activities like singing, creative writing, or painting are healthier and happier than those who aren't   

3. Work with Friends

Researchers found that people who get along with their co-workers in a friendly and supportive work environment live longer

4. Get a Massage

You can never go wrong with a massage, but research shows significant benefits for overall health   

5. Eat Your Carotenoids

New evidence suggests that fruits and vegetables, in addition to their many other benefits, give our skin a healthful glow

6. Chat with Neighbours

People are healthier when they have a strong, localized community

7. Sleep More

According to researcher William Killgore, when people get less sleep they tend to feel more hungry and to crave carbohydrates, particularly sweets  

8.Scrub without Toxics

9. Hope Like your Life Depends on It 

"Happy and optimistic people with a purpose in life tend to have a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease," says researcher Julia K. Boehm  

The 4th Annual NASIMCO Youth Leadership Retreat was held from July 4-7, 2013 in Minnesota. 21 participants came from across North America and took part in a jam-packed weekend designed to facilitate youth to 'Think outside the Box'.

The retreat was broken down into three parts: Understanding oneself; Understanding your community; and Taking action. The primary question of the weekend was, "Are you in the box?" When we enter "the box", it limits out perspective. Our hearts become at war. Leading the participants through the philosophy of "self-deception and the box" allowed participants to unlock their minds and reconsider their perspectives.  

One participant had the following reflection to share at the end of the weekend: 

"I gained practical skills from workshops such as active listening and was able build a strong network of like-minded and motivated youth who I can rely on for future ideas, motivation, and support." 

Click here to read the full report