Southern Remedy

Do you ever come across people who are always upbeat and no matter what life throws at them, they just seem to roll with the punches? Well, it’s quite possible they’re following a formula for happiness. Join us today as we take a look at "Happiness Happens Month", a month dedicated to celebrating what makes you happy. We'll also discuss what "happiness" is and how to increase your own happiness and others around you. 10 Things That Can Help Make You Happier and Enjoy Life MoreStart with a Good Dose of GratitudeBeing consciously aware of what you’re thankful for can actually change your level of happiness.Make Sure You’re Giving BackNational Institutes of Health found that when people give to charities, it activates regions of the brain associated with pleasure, social connection, and trust, creating a “warm glow” effect. Scientists also believe that altruistic behavior releases endorphins in the brain, producing the positive feeling known as the “helper’s high.”Laugh Every DayWhen you laugh, you release a happy hormone called Oxycontin. It’s a hormone that uplifts us as we share experiences with others. Even just making yourself smile will put you in a better place.Foster Good Relationships with Family and FriendsBy spending time with people you like, you forge supportive relationships that help you in times of stress.You also bond with others through common experiences, such as life’s ups and downs. They become your support network.People who don’t spend as much time with family or friends are more prone to loneliness and depression.Take Some Alone TimeIn contrast to spending time with family and friends, it’s important to step back and take some time for yourself, by yourself.You can recharge your spirit and find a little peace in a little bit of silence. Taking some time away and being alone can do wonders for your mood and outlook.Volunteer Your TimeWhen you give of yourself, either by time or talent, your focus shifts from your life to that of others.This can help you realize that your own problems may not be that bad. You invariably forge new relationships and experience an uplift in your spirit.Get Enough ExerciseHumans were made to move around and the body works best when it does what it was meant to do.When you take some time to exert yourself, you reduce your stress levels.Deal With ClutterWhen you’re not running around looking for items you can’t find, when everything has its place, you’ll automatically be less stressed and in a better mental state.Tackle a small task each day for a month in an effort to de-clutter your life.Avoid RegretsWe all make mistakes in life–that’s part of the human condition. The key is to forgive yourself and others, learn from the mistakes and move on.Don’t Compare Yourself To Others“Comparison is the thief of joy.” — Theodore RooseveltThis is definitely easier said than done, but if you can condition your mind to focus on the good that you are doing and the good things in your life, you’re not going to be tempted to focus on how others are doing.

Dr. Josie Bidwell, Associate Professor of Preventive Medicine at UMMC broadcasts via Skype to observe social distancing guidelines.This week, her guest is Immunologist Dr. Erin Taylor.They discuss the human immune system and how it works and answer several listener questions about autoimmune disease.

Dr. Jimmy Stewart, Professor of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics at UMMC, answers questions from listeners about their medical concerns.This week, there are questions about stroke, blurry vision and COVID 19.

It’s no secret, we’re all living in stressful times, people are not only worried about themselves or their families becoming ill, they are dealing with economic and emotional issues, societal problems and potential loneliness and isolation. That stress could be leading to something more. Today we take a closer look at “Broken Heart Syndrome” and its relationship between the COVID-19 pandemic with our guest, Dr. Courtney Walker, psychologist at UMMC. Listen as we discuss what "Broken Heart Syndrome" is, ways to prevent it and what to do if you or someone you love is at risk of developing a broken heart.

Dr. Josie Bidwell, Associate Professor of Preventive Medicine at UMMC broadcasts via Skype to observe social distancing guidelines.This week, she answers listener questions about transitioning to a diet with less meat, the health of vegetable alternatives to meat and acne caused by wearing a mask.

With school approaching, this week Dr. McLoed welcomes Dr. Feldman back to the program to talk pediatric vaccinations.