Category Archives: health and wellness

Top 5 Parks In and Around Kansas City

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Hi everyone! Scott Asner here!

Kansas City is not just a hub for jazz and barbecue but also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Here’s a quick guide to the five best parks in and around the city.

1. Swope Park

Spanning over 1,800 acres, Swope Park is one of the largest urban parks in the U.S. It’s home to a variety of attractions. The Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium provides engaging exhibits and interactive experiences for families. The iconic Starlight Theatre hosts outdoor concerts and musical theater, adding a cultural touch to the park’s natural beauty. Swope Park is perfect for hiking, biking, and even Ziplining. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy a scenic round at Swope Memorial Golf Course.

2. Loose Park

Loose Park, a 75-acre urban oasis, is renowned for its beauty and history. The park’s rose garden is a stunning attraction and a popular spot for weddings and photo shoots. The serene pond and fountains create a perfect setting for a leisurely stroll or a relaxed picnic. Loose Park is also a historic site of the Civil War’s Battle of Westport, so it is a natural destination for history buffs.

3. Shawnee Mission Park

Located in Shawnee, Kansas, just a short drive from Kansas City, Shawnee Mission Park is a 1,600-acre paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The park’s large lake is perfect for boating, fishing, and swimming, with rentals available for kayaks, paddleboards, and more. Extensive trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding wind through the park, offering stunning views and diverse terrains. The off-leash dog area – all 44 acres of it – is a hit with pet owners, and during winter, the park’s hills are popular for sledding.

4. Parkville Nature Sanctuary

Nestled in the charming town of Parkville, Missouri, the Parkville Nature Sanctuary offers a peaceful escape into nature. The sanctuary features several trails, including the popular White Tail Trail, which winds through dense woods and along a tranquil creek. It’s a fantastic spot for birdwatching and nature photography, thanks to the sanctuary’s diverse habitats and abundant wildlife.

5. Berkley Riverfront Park

Situated along the banks of the Missouri River, Berkley Riverfront Park offers a unique blend of urban and natural landscapes. Walking and biking trails, open green spaces, and picnic areas are perfect for all ages. It is a lively venue for various events and festivals throughout the year. Its proximity to the bustling River Market district allows visitors to easily explore local shops, restaurants, and the historic City Market, which dates back to 1857.

Kansas City’s parks provide a diverse array of outdoor experiences, from the expansive landscapes of Swope Park to the tranquil beauty of Parkville Nature Sanctuary. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, these parks offer the perfect settings to enjoy the great outdoors in and around Kansas City.

Also read: Best New Restaurants in Kansas City

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For more articles like these, follow Scott Asner on: Medium, About.me, and Pinterest

The Need for Mindfulness and Stoicism in a Hectic Age

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Hi everyone! Scott Asner here!

I hardly need to remind you, but we live in stressful and anxiety-inducing times. We live in an age in which we are bombarded with a 24-hour news-cycle, which is constantly in hyperdrive, and constant emails, texts, and Zoom calls. There is an increasing blurring of the line between our work and private lives.

While it is challenging, we cannot allow the constant distractions to overwhelm us. This Mental Health Awareness Month, it is more important than ever to slow down, disconnect, and reset.

Mindfulness and Stoicism are timeless frameworks offering profound insights into how we can do so.

Mindfulness, stemming from Buddhist traditions, emphasizes being present in the moment, cultivating awareness, and accepting things as they are without judgment. Numerous studies have confirmed mindfulness’s myriad benefits for mental health and overall well-being.

Philosophers, both ancient and contemporary, have long recognized the importance of mindfulness in leading a fulfilling life. From the Stoics of ancient Greece and Rome to modern thinkers like Thich Nhat Hanh and Jon Kabat-Zinn, the integration of mindfulness into philosophical inquiry has been a recurring theme.

Stoicism is a comprehensive philosophical system that underscores self-awareness, resilience, and virtue. Rooted in the teachings of thinkers like Seneca, Epictetus, and Marcus Aurelius, Stoicism provides practical tools for facing life’s challenges with equanimity and grace.

At the heart of Stoic philosophy is the concept of “living in accordance with nature,” which involves accepting the natural order of the universe and focusing on what is within our control. This echoes the principles of mindfulness, which encourage us to let go of attachments to outcomes and instead focus on the present moment.

By integrating mindfulness practices into Stoic philosophy, individuals can cultivate a deeper sense of self-awareness and emotional resilience.

In essence, the marriage of mindfulness and Stoicism offers a powerful framework for living a meaningful and fulfilling life in today’s fast-paced world. By embracing the wisdom of ancient philosophers and incorporating mindfulness into our daily lives, we can cultivate inner peace, resilience, and a deeper sense of purpose.

For more about mindfulness, check out my post “5 Benefits of Practicing Mindfulness in Daily Life.”

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Also follow Scott Asner on: Medium, About.me, and Pinterest

A Beginner’s Guide To Healthy Eating Habits

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Hi everyone! Scott Asner here! Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is an achievable goal, and it all starts with the food choices you make. A well-balanced diet can do wonders for your overall well-being, energy levels, and even your mood. If you’re new to the world of healthy eating, here’s a beginner’s guide to help you get started on the path to nourishing your body and feeling your best self!  
 

1. Embrace Whole Foods 

Whole organic foods are foods that are as close to their natural state as possible. These include fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and nuts. These foods are packed with essential nutrients that your body needs to function optimally. You can even grow them yourself at home by creating a garden to have fresh produce for a low cost! 

2. Prioritize Nutrient Variety 

Eating a variety of nutrient-rich foods ensures that you’re getting a wide range of vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients. Make sure to include foods from all food groups to ensure a balanced diet. 

 4. Stay Hydrated 

Water is essential for digestion, circulation, and overall health. If you want to feel your best and eat a healthy diet, water is the key!  Aim to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Herbal teas and infused water can also be great alternatives if you want to have some variety in your beverages. 

 6. Include Lean Proteins 

Proteins are the building blocks of the body. They help muscle development, immune function, and more! Some great recommendations for lean protein sources are chicken, turkey, fish, beans, lentils, tofu, and Greek yogurt. 

7. Don’t Skip Breakfast 

This can be a tough one for those rushing out the door barely with a coffee in hand, but it is very important! Starting your day with a nutritious breakfast can set the tone for healthy eating throughout the day. Choose options like whole-grain oatmeal, yogurt with fruits and nuts, or whole-grain toast with avocado. 

That will be all for today! Hopefully these easy habits have propelled you to take charge of  better and healthier eating habits! See you next time! 

 
~ Scott Asner, Founding Principal of Eighteen Capital Group (18CG) in Kansas City, Missouri     

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