Yesterday on the morning news, I heard that the first week of Daylight Saving Time (DST) is very stressful for many people as they have to move their clocks forward for Spring. During the first few days following, there is an increase in heart attacks, especially in men, an increase in traffic accidents on the first Monday, and an overall increase in stress related to the time change.  If this is so stressful, then what is the reasoning behind this clock-changing event?

The concept of DST began in ancient Rome where they adjusted their daily schedules to the sun.  They actually divided their daylight time into 12 equal hours throughout the year.  During the summer, their hours were longer than those in winter.  Today, that would make an 8-hour workday around 10 hours long.  I’m glad that idea didn’t stick.

Benjamin Franklin, who stated, “Early to bed, and early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy and wise,” suggested people wake up earlier in the morning to take advantage of the morning sunlight.  He never proposed Daylight Saving Time; however, Franklin suggested ringing church bells and firing cannons at sunrise to wake up the community.  There’s nothing like starting your day off with a “bang.”

Daylight Saving Time was originally proposed by George Vernon Hudson of New Zealand in 1895.  He had the idea of a time change when he saw the potential for having more daylight at the end of his work day, leading to more time to collect insects.  He was an entomologist.

Today, about half the world observes Daylight Saving Time.  Although, studies have found that there are some benefits to the time change, such as in retail sales, sporting events and after work and school activities, it does have its drawbacks.  The disruption of a person’s regular sleep cycle can cause varying degrees of stress, even in children.

If you, or someone you know, are feeling the effects of the time change, there are simple steps to take to reduce the stressful effects.  To start, just enjoy the day.  Spring is right around the corner which means lots of sunshine, flowers and outdoor fun are ahead.

Have a Grand Day!

Kay Fontana
“The Grandcoach”

P.S.  If you would like more information about stress relief, please go to Got Stress? Get Relief Now! for assistance.

We must be the change we wish to see.

~ Mahatma Gandhi

Human Rights Day was created by the United Nations to promote awareness of the importance of Human Rights issues around the world. On this date in 1948, the UN General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Each year, the United Nations, establishes a new theme for the year. The theme for 2009 is “Non-discrimination.”

The sad truth about human rights is that the opportunities of many around the world are hindered by discrimination.  People are discriminated upon based on race, religion, age, gender, education, socio-economic status and lifestyle preferences.  Even though there are 30 Human Rights in the Declaration, discrimination still exists leaving people all over the world jobless, uneducated, homeless and starving.

So, with this being said, have you experienced discrimination? Have you been denied opportunities based on your age, health, financial situation or  family status?  Have your grandchildren been discriminated upon based on their family situation?

If any of these resonate with you, I encourage you to watch the video below and visit http://www.humanrights.com for more information about Human Rights.  I would also recommend that you to visit http://www.youthforhumanrights.org to encourage your grandchildren to be involved in protecting their Human Rights and so that they become advocates of tolerance and peace.

Warm regards,

Kay L. Fontana

“The Grandcoach”

If you have ever moved to a different city, state or even country, you know that change can be very stressful.  My husband was recently accepted for a transfer at work from Phoenix to Prescott, AZ. We had been waiting for this opportunity to open up since we moved to Phoenix to be with our family a year-and-a-half ago.  Not fond of the summer heat, we jumped all over it and moved with our daughter and grandson.

Aside from the fact I was without Internet service for almost two weeks, and feeling extremely concerned that I had missed sending out two newsletters to my subscribers, the move went rather well.  However, with any move, there is a bit of adjusting to the new environment and being able to locate items that had been packed.

Some people do not handle change as well. It frustrates them and creates stress in their lives. However, change is all part of life and we must deal with it the best we can. As a grandparent raising grandchildren, you may be feeling, or have felt, the stress of change in your life.

If you are one who does not react well to change, you might find the following tips helpful when dealing with your transition:

• Understand that change is inevitable. Change happens and we often do not have any control of it.
• Recognize what part of the change frustrates you the most. Is it the lack of control of the situation, or the disruption of your routine?
• Identify a support system of people you can talk to about your feelings and frustrations. They can be family, friends, co-workers or a coach.
• Identify your strengths that can contribute to making the change happen. Be an active participant or facilitator of the change. Utilize your talents in the process.
• Keep an open mind about the change. You may find some amazing opportunities waiting for you!
• Identify the positive factors of the change. Look at the glass as half full instead of half empty. What are the benefits to this change?
• Talk to your grandchildren about the change.  Allow them to express their feelings so you can put their minds at ease.

Change can be frustrating to many people, especially children. It creates uncertainty, fear and anxiety. However, we can take an active role in making the transition easier. By following a few steps, we can take control of the situation creating a more positive and successful transition for you and your grandchildren.

Warm regards,

Kay L. Fontana