Category: Healthy Soul

Burning the candle at both ends?  While you're taking care of EVERYTHING, take care of yourself!

The holiday season, a time when the air is filled with selfless giving and joyous celebrations. Well, at least that’s what we are told it is!

My holiday season seems to be filled with an abundance of Christmas parties, children’s winter concerts, work, holiday shopping, out of town guests, cleaning and chores…in a nutshell, “STRESS!”

How can I keep my holidays merry and bright, get everything done and still have some sanity left for the start of the new year? By not letting the holidays get the best OF me, and letting the holidays bring out the best IN me. Here's how I plan to do it:

Me first.

First step? Put myself first. I know this sounds a bit selfish, but if I don’t take care of “me” first, I cannot get anything else done! The holiday season has a habit of taking an emotional toll on people, which is why a balance of physical, psychological, and emotional well-being is important.

Letting go.

Sometimes when special moments don’t go as planned, we tend to get emotional or feel disappointed. This year I plan on “letting go” a little and just going with the flow a little more. Think positive, be flexible, and just maybe things will go better than planned! Filling my head with positive thoughts and not getting caught up in negative drama can also keep me in balance through the holidays.

Checking out.

Unplugging, unwinding, and relaxing my mind can help recharge that mental fatigue we all feel now and again. Deep breathing, positive affirmations, listening to relaxing music, and even meditation can help with de-stressing and re-connecting with one's self. And they're just generally good for overall well-being. I will walk, stretch, practice yoga, or lift weights , even for 20 minutes a day to keep me energized and feeling ready to go!

Eating smart.

What I put in my body has a lot to do with how well I will manage stress. When out and about in the midst of the holiday hustle and bustle, I need to think of my health. Instead of running to the over-priced tempting food court, I'll pack a high-protein snack and a cold bottle of water ahead of time. This way staying hydrated, full, and energized is not a problem. Granola bars, bananas, fruit cups, nuts, or even yogurts are the perfect sized snack for on the go.

When attending or even planning festivities, I won’t overindulge. I will start eating at the healthier end of the table where the fruits and veggies are served and try to limit my sugar intake. I will limit alcohol intake, try cranberry or pomegranate enriched drinks and serve healthier, alternative dishes and desserts when I have guests over.

Mind my health.

I will bundle up and stay sanitized, washing hands often, especially when shopping. I will dress accordingly to the weather. Avoiding the cold that can send a balanced life off kilter will definitely help the holidays go smoother.

As selfish as it sounds, taking care of myself has to be top priority. This way, the holidays will remain merry and bright, for everyone!

Empower (verb): Make someone stronger and more confident, especially in controlling their life.

Believe it or not, a clean, healthy living space has the ability to empower you to make better decisions and live your best life. Your home is often (but not always) a reflection of your mental state and your lifestyle, so when it’s tidy and clean, it may indicate that you’re currently on top of things: crushing your goals, supporting your family, and taking care of yourself. But before your home can empower you, you need to consider how you can empower your home. 

Scheduling a regular cleaning service can help. Maid Brigade’s experts can take your organizational efforts to the next level, cleaning every room from top to bottom to create a home that’s effortlessly empowered. There are also small, manageable efforts you can make on your own to ensure your home looks as good as it feels. Let’s talk about some: 

Start with a Decluttered Space

Think about how difficult it is to feel confident and in control in a cluttered space. In fact, cleaning itself becomes a bit of a pain, too. Dusting crowded surfaces and vacuuming around objects on the floor is both frustrating and less productive than a truly thorough cleaning, so it’s in your best interest to clear the clutter before you do any scrubbing. If this seems overwhelming, just spend 10–15 minutes a day tackling one area—a kitchen counter, a bathroom drawer, or a pile of mail. Once things are in order, maintaining that tidiness becomes much more manageable and your overall energy gets a boost. Plus, you’ll want to declutter before a professional cleaning team arrives. 

Stick to a Simple Cleaning Routine

Creating consistent habits and routines around cleaning can make the whole process smooth and stress-free, contributing to that “I got this!” feeling that’s so empowering throughout the week. Here are some useful habits we recommend:

• Use the Calendar: Assign certain days of the week to different cleaning tasks. For instance, Wednesday can be the day you tackle vacuuming and mopping the floors while Tuesday can be dedicated entirely to dusting. With this approach, you know what to expect every week and you’re never giving yourself more than you can handle. 
• Break it Down: You can also avoid the dreaded weekend cleaning marathon by creating “chunks” of cleaning activities that can be managed in a matter of minutes rather than a matter of hours. For example, if you’re doing laundry, go ahead and clean your lint traps and sweep and clean the laundry room floor while you’re waiting for clothes to dry. 
• Have Your Family Lend a Hand: Everyone can pitch in! Whether it’s taking turns cleaning the kitchen or agreeing to help each other out with daily decluttering, having the whole family on board makes cleaning a breeze and helps establish a fully functional household where every member is a capable contributor. 

Choose Eco-Friendly Cleaning Solutions

A safe home feels empowered because it’s a worry-free home. Rather than fretting over chemical ingredients and wondering if your precious houseplants will survive an accidental bleach spill, you can breathe easy knowing that eco-friendly cleaning products are protecting your plants, your pets, and the rest of your family from exposure to anything toxic. (Besides, it feels good to do something positive for the environment, right?) Ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice can handle many household cleaning tasks. These natural solutions are effective, safe, and budget-friendly ways to lift stains and sanitize your surroundings.

Did you know that Maid Brigade is committed to using non-toxic cleaning solutions? Our PUREcleaning® process is actually the most advanced green cleaning system available, relying on electrolyzed water, HEPA-filtration vacuums, and allergy-free, antibacterial cloths to give your home a distinctive shine without nasty chemical odors and residues. 

Prioritize High-Touch Areas

High-touch surfaces—like doorknobs, light switches, remote controls, faucet handles, and refrigerator doors—are some of the most frequently used and least frequently cleaned areas in a home. These surfaces can harbor bacteria, viruses, and allergens, making regular disinfection essential for a healthy, empowered living environment. 

To effectively clean these areas:

• Use a natural disinfectant, such as a vinegar-water solution or hydrogen peroxide, to kill germs without introducing harsh chemicals.
• For electronics like remote controls and light switches, opt for a microfiber cloth lightly dampened with rubbing alcohol to prevent damage.
• Make it part of your daily or weekly routine—keeping disinfectant wipes handy can make quick clean-ups easy and convenient.
• Pay extra attention to these areas during flu season or when someone in the household is sick.

Small, consistent efforts in cleaning these high-contact surfaces can significantly reduce the spread of germs and keep you feeling confident in your own home. 

Don’t Overlook the Outdoors 

Your outdoor spaces are the first line of defense in keeping your home clean. Dirt, pollen, and debris accumulate on porches, patios, and entryways, only to be tracked inside on shoes, pet paws, and even gusts of wind. A little maintenance outside can make a big impact inside. 

Keep the outdoors from bringing in a mess with these simple steps:

• Sweep regularly: A quick sweep of your porch, patio, or doorstep every few days prevents dirt from making its way indoors.
• Use doormats strategically: Place durable, high-quality doormats outside and inside each entrance. Shake them out or vacuum them weekly.
• Remove shoes at the door: Encourage a no-shoes policy indoors to reduce the amount of dirt and bacteria brought inside.
• Clean outdoor furniture and railings: Wiping down chairs, tables, and railings prevents dust and pollen buildup, especially in allergy seasons.
• Check your gutters and downspouts: Clogged gutters can cause water damage and mold growth near entryways, leading to musty odors and extra indoor cleaning challenges.

Taking a few minutes to tidy up your home’s exterior will not only improve curb appeal but also contribute to a cleaner, healthier indoor environment. And don’t forget that the outdoor “face” of your home can be the source of many first impressions. Making a positive impression on guests and passersby signals to the world that you have your life together both outside and inside your house.

Know When to Call in the Experts

A well-maintained home isn’t just about cleanliness. It’s about creating a space that supports your well-being, comfort, and peace of mind. By incorporating small but impactful cleaning habits, you take control of your environment, reducing allergens, germs, and everyday messes that can disrupt your home’s harmony.

However, some tasks require an expert touch. Whether it’s deep-cleaning carpets, tackling stubborn buildup in high-use areas, or restoring order after a renovation, professional cleaning ensures your home stays in peak condition. Investing in a regular cleaning schedule not only preserves your space but also frees you to focus on the things that matter most—family, relaxation, and the joy of a fresh, inviting home.For a deeper, more thorough clean, contact your local Maid Brigade. Our professional team is here to lift the burden, so you can enjoy the benefits of a truly empowered home—one that’s cleaner, healthier, and effortlessly refreshed.

“It’s the small things in life that count.” People have said this to me my entire life, and you know what? It’s true.

In two days, people all over the country will be celebrating Thanksgiving with their loved ones. Thanksgiving is the perfect time to reflect on our lives, to be grateful for the things we usually take advantage of, and for our families and loved ones that fill our hearts with joy and laughter throughout the year. For some of us, it is a time to “let go” and re-group, and for others, it is a time to think positive and move forward. Whatever path you decide to follow, be thankful for the little things that got you there in the first place.

Two years ago my mother and fourteen of my relatives had their houses destroyed by Hurricane Sandy. To this day, most of the homes are almost repaired except for my mothers. My mother lost her home, and is still waiting to rebuild her house. She has been in and out of three different rental homes since. Throughout the aftermath of Sandy, such an emotionally tragic and unexpected time, where the bad completely out-weighed the good, there was always a ray of hope and kindness from strangers, volunteers and organizations like the Red Cross to keep us going. I will be forever grateful for the little things, like a bottle of water, food, a napkin, toilet paper, clean socks, dry gloves, a cup of coffee, a hug, a fork, a spoon, and a blanket, that were so desperately needed and given to us without any questions asked. In such a devastating time, I realized how caring people can actually be.

Besides my husband and children, here are some other things I am grateful for….  

• Life and the air that fill my lungs each day.
• Our beautiful planet Earth, where life begins.
• Good health, for myself and my family.
• My mind, so I can think, store memories, and create new ideas.
• Animals and pets, which bring endless joy to my family every day.
• The sun, for shedding light and beauty on us.
• Technology, computers, cell phones, etc. that are so integral to our lives.
• Transportation, so we can explore our planet and rekindle friendships.
• Comedy/Happiness, to keep the laughter and joy in our world.
• My job, where I can add value to our world.
• Love, which helps me feel alive.
• A higher power to lean on, learn from and pray to for strength, support, faith, and hope.
• Me…for being me and touching the world with my presence.

Sometimes we take for granted the very things that deserve our gratitude the most. Learning to appreciate the small things in life plays a bigger role in creating a peaceful and happy world. This holiday season, take a few minutes to reflect on the good things in our lives and realize how blessed we all are.

How often do you pause to appreciate what you have in life?

“…And in all things, give thanks”

~ the Apostle Paul

All my life I have always been told to be “nice, to give back, to pay it forward and to treat others the way I want to be treated.” When I was young, this didn’t mean that much to me, but as a nurse and a mother, it means the world to me.

Being able to say just two simple words, “thank you,” from the heart can bring happiness, not just to others, but also to ourselves.

In the workforce, it is an expression of appreciation which can boost morale and performance and facilitate better working relationships. In the medical field, hearing a quick “thank you” from a patient you are taking care of makes you want to give back more. As a mother of three beautiful children, instilling good manners and teaching them to be thankful at an early age can pave the road for a lifetime of health, happiness and greater optimism.

As an added bonus, saying “thank you” can also help our body’s immune system by reducing stress. Research has shown that grateful people take better care of themselves and engage in more positive health behaviors like regular exercise, a healthy diet, and regular routine physical examinations.

As we approach Thanksgiving, we are reminded of all the things we are grateful for, like the air in our lungs, the food on our table and the roof over our heads. But being grateful should be practiced on a daily basis, not just once a year during Thanksgiving.

How do you practice gratitude? By being grateful. Focus on three things you are grateful for each day. Being alive, having enough money to buy lunch, having quality “me” time while stuck in traffic, etc. Over time, you will feel better about your life and be more optimistic about your future. Keep a weekly gratitude journal or make a daily calendar out of sticky notes to remind yourself of all the positive things in your life.

Learn to express gratitude and thanks to others. Being able to give and to receive works wonders on your heart, which leads to a happier, healthier, more peaceful life.

Gratitude helps us manage stress. Being able to feel “thankful” can help us cope with our daily problems and reduce stress. Stress is linked to cancer and heart disease and it is one of the top reasons why people go to their primary care physician.

Being grateful leads to being optimistic which leads to a stronger immune system. Research has shown that thinking positive has an effect on the immune system.

If you are facing a tough situation in your life, try and focus on how this situation can be beneficial in the long run.

When dealing with difficult people, improve your understanding and patience by re-analyzing a situation with a better, more positive attitude.

Now that you know how gratitude can make your life better, what are ways in which you'll express it? Share your thoughts with me below!

It’s been a hectic few weeks.  Besides work, chores, errands, homework and children’s afterschool activities seven days a week, I am preparing to shoot a pilot TV show with my good friend and radio co-host Leslie Reichert!  The show is called “SLOBS” and I cannot wait to begin filming this Friday!

During these crazy times when life seems to be filled with more stress and less time, it is so important to make sure you give yourself a few moments each day to “recoup,” unwind, and re-energize.  I learned this the hard way.  There were so many times I pushed “me” time out of the way so I can take care of others, or so I can  finish up my “to do” list for the day.  After a while, I started getting cluster headaches (all due from stress) because of not giving myself any down time.  The only time I had to myself was at night when I was sleeping.  This was just not enough.

To get rid of my cluster headaches, I had to learn to put myself first and take care of “me.”  The first step in this learning process was to learn to give myself some down time every day.  Since my busy schedule doesn’t allow me to have as much time as I would like right now, I decided to devote a few ten minute breaks each day to reduce my stress and regain my sanity.

Since I started this “ten minute rule” I have not stopped.  It works perfectly in my busy schedule and it is exactly what I need to get through my busy days and come out feeling positive and successful instead of stressed out.  There are so many things you can do in ten minutes too! Try giving yourself a few ten minute breaks throughout the day, I bet you will be hooked!   Here are five of my favorites:

1.  Sitting quietly on my porch in my rocking chair sipping a hot cup of tea.  Looking out into the beautiful sunshine, breathing fresh air into my lungs as I rock back and forth in my rocking chair is one of my favorite getaways. I instantly forget about life for a little while and focus on our beautiful world instead.
2. Meditating by the ocean (or its sounds).  I love the water!  I grew up in a house on the Great South Bay and nothing is more relaxing to me than staring out into the water watching the sun’s rays beam down on the waves while hearing the sounds of sea gulls flying in the air.  Meditating in a peaceful environment (like the ocean) allows you to clear your head and your heart and let those negative feelings flow right out of your mind.  Just ten minutes of meditation has always given me extra energy to get through the rest of the day. Meditating while watching the sunset over the ocean is the ultimate relaxer for me. Of course, if you don't live near the ocean, a sound machine is a decent substitute! There are many online sound "machines" that are closer to authentic; they may even have seagull sounds!
3. Walk a Mile.  Did you know the average person can walk about a mile in ten minutes?  If meditating isn’t your thing to relieve stress, why not try a little exercise?  Just ten minutes of speed/power walking will lift your energy level and your spirits up and give you a natural high to last you throughout the day.
4. Give yourself a facial.  Relax and look beautiful all at the same time.  Throw some oatmeal, yogurt and honey on your face, sit back and rest for ten minutes.  A power nap will rejuvenate you and the facial will bring a rosy glow to your complexion.  If facials are not your thing, try a ten minute foot or neck massage.  Ten minute foot and neck massages work wonders on stress!
5. Play with your children, your pets, or both.  Nothing melts away the stress and brings a smile to your heart than spending time with your children and your pets.  Just ten minutes of quality time can make their day and yours seem brighter.

Learning to love and take care of your self is so important, yet for many of us, it is so easily overlooked.  Take time for you, even if it’s just ten minutes each day.  You deserve it.  Remember, the small daily improvements that we incorporate in our lives are the key to staggering long-term results.  Ten minutes a day can give you a lifetime of happiness!

In honor of Women's Equality Day today, which commemorates the ratification of women’s voting rights in the United States, here are some tips from real women (including me) trying to meet the challenge of achieving well being.

Maria Goldsholl, Chief Operating Officer, Mom Corps

• Flexibility in your work schedule is key—ask for it or find a company that offers it.
• Plan “me time” and put it on your calendar—Set up date nights with your spouse and schedule time with family and friends. If you have drinks with the girls or a massage planned, you’ll manage your time to make it happen.

Ellen Lawton, JD, Co-Director, George Washington University National Center for Medical-Legal Partnership

• Become an expert at asking for help—from family, friends, neighbors, and fellow parents.
• Use your support system—Pick up the phone when you’re late for a daycare pickup. We’re all in this together!

Cali Williams Yost, CEO & Founder, Flex+Strategy Group|Work+Life Fit, Inc.

• Celebrate success—Start the week by giving yourself credit for last week’s accomplishments.
• Keep a combined work and personal calendar—Make choices throughout the day based on a complete work/life picture.

Susan King Glosby, MSW, VP of Operations, FIT4MOM

• Manage life with 3 P's in mind—Prioritize, Persist, and Plan. The more you plan, the better you’ll ensure levels of success at home, work, and in your personal life.
• Keep your own flame burning bright!

My tips - Marie Stegner, Consumer Health Advocate, Maid Brigade

• Fight guilt— Say "no" and feel good about it. It’s ok to miss an occasional baseball game. Most of us can’t give 100 percent to everything all of the time.
• Rethink clean—Who cares if the beds are not made or the furniture is not dusted on a daily basis? Accept some of the mess in your home and spend time enjoying your life.

Share your tips! Visit the Maid Brigade Facebook page and post your work/life balance tips.