Learning a musical instrument benefits the human body in various cognitive and physical ways, as well as sustaining and feeding the brain. When you Learn to play an instrument, it enhances memory, both cognitive and muscle memory. In general, music promotes harmony and balance in one’s life. Children who take up an instrument have a way to express their feelings and creativity.
Benefits of Learning to Play an Instrument
Learning to play an instrument is not only fun; it can also help you recover from emotional trauma. Studies have shown that music has the power to heal, improve memory, and improve the immune system. Furthermore, music helps you feel more creative and productive. It can even slow the progression of hearing loss as you age. However, learning to play an instrument takes time and dedication.
While learning an instrument can be challenging, the desire to improve will motivate you to practice more. In addition, you will have to schedule time for practice, which may even replace your TV viewing.
Time Commitment
Learning an instrument requires a substantial amount of time and commitment. The commitment is limited to practicing multiple times a week and requires the student to dedicate a lot of time to master the skills. Therefore, it’s unrealistic to expect that you’ll be able to play an instrument perfectly on your first try.
While learning an instrument takes time, it’s also rewarding. Learning an instrument gives you access to a broader range of musical styles. You might learn to play the piano or keyboard and later move on to organs, bass guitars, or vibraphones.
Creative Pursuit
One of the best ways to express creativity is by playing an instrument. Playing music is entertaining and good for the mind, body, and soul. Kids, especially, can enjoy the benefits of learning an instrument. If your child has not already started learning to play an instrument, encourage them to do so in a music studio such as Forbes Music Company.
Composing your music can be intimidating, but the added challenge can help you get motivated to practice. Whether you prefer classical music, rock, or jazz, you can create music to express yourself. If you aren’t sure what genre you want to explore, try a few different styles to see what you like. After all, no one’s first piece is perfect. Nevertheless, you can learn what suits you best with enough practice.
Improve Memory Capacity
Musicians can increase their memory capacity and accuracy using mnemonics or a series of words or phrases. These strategies allow them to learn musical phrases and scales quickly. These techniques can also enhance executive functioning, which is crucial for efficiently encoding and interpreting music. Memory capacity is organized into short-term memory (STM) and long-term (LTM). Short-term memory stores pre-set values (such as keyboard keys and a music instrument’s pitch), while long-term memory stores more information.
One way to improve your memory when learning to play an instrument is to practice your instrument frequently. By practicing your playing every day, you will develop a strong memory for the instrument. As a result, you’ll be more comfortable playing it and expressing your thoughts and ideas. It will also improve your performance and your confidence level.
| Your surroundings can have a big influence on how you’re feeling. A bit of sunshine, green space, and accessible mental health resources can go a long way. So, which cities have the optimal environment for mental well-being? To mark World Mental Health Day today, LawnStarter compared over 190 of the biggest U.S. cities to rank 2022’s Best Cities for Mental Wellness. We considered 33 metrics based on mental, physical, social, financial, and environmental factors. These include factors like access to therapists, cost of living, average sleep levels, meditation classes, and urban gardening-friendliness. Find out which 20 cities are best for mental wellness below, followed by some highlights and lowlights from our report. (See where your city ranks.) |
| Highlights and Lowlights: Suburban Satisfaction: Naperville, Illinois, takes first place overall and in Financial Wellness. A small share of adults with poor mental health and low divorce rates brought this city to the top. Similar rankings lifted Pasadena, California (No. 2), Bellevue, Washington (No. 6), and Alexandria, Virginia (No. 7). These cities are full of therapists, as well as healthy, financially stable, and well-rested adults. Pasadena has the best access to mental health services, with more than 556 therapists per 100,000 residents. The City of Roses also boasts the most meditation classes. Naperville has the least crime (No. 1), while Alexandria is great for getting that extra boost of dopamine from biking and other exercise opportunities West Coast Wellness: The laidback West Coast dominates our ranking, with Pacific cities taking up more than half of our top 20. Meditation, running, biking, yoga, and hiking are popular in this region. In addition to their high scores in Physical Wellness and Mindfulness factors, Seattle (No. 3) and San Francisco (No. 5) impress with high access to therapy, green space, and sufficient sleep. However, not all that glitters is gold: Under the serene surface, long work hours, binge drinking, and drug overdose deaths put a strain on San Fran and Seattle.Fit Minds: Getting some exercise can help a lot when you can’t afford (or simply don’t have access to) mental health services. While Fort Collins, Colorado (No. 9), and Salt Lake City (No. 14) each have ample therapy access, they also have high rates of Physical Wellness (No. 3 and No. 2, respectively). Working long hours and getting limited sleep can be detrimental to physical and mental health. Fort Collins is also the most well-rested city, followed by Bellevue, Washington; Minneapolis; and Overland Park, Kansas. Meanwhile, New York cities Syracuse and Buffalo, along with Dayton, Ohio, have the lowest average weekly work hours. Our full ranking and analysis are available here: https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/studies/best-cities-for-mental-wellness/ |
There’s nothing worse than noticing a leak in the roof. The roof is something that many homeowners often forget about needing to maintain, especially as it helps to insulate the home. With a leak, it’s a compromise that can affect the entire property, not just the part of the property that’s leaking.
It’s important to act fast to help prevent as much damage as possible. With that in mind, here’s what to do when a leak is found in the roof space.
Move anything directly under the leak
If there’s a leak already happening, then the first thing that needs to be done is to remove anything that’s currently underneath it. This is important because the leak itself is bad enough but the water and debris coming through can end up causing further damage to the interior and furnishings within the home.
For example, if the leak is coming from a ceiling that falls directly onto electronics, then it’s worthwhile getting these moved out of the way, ideally out of the room in question.
Contain the water where possible
With a leaking roof, there may be a lot of rainfall that happens during the time the roof is being assessed and the work is being done to fix it.
It’s worth putting something underneath the leak directly to contain the water. That way, it reduces the amount of damage caused. If it’s possible to climb into the roof space to do this, then it’s worth the effort to help minimize the overall cost and damage caused.
Temporarily cover the exposed part
Talking of putting in temporary measures, it’s important to try and cover the exposed part as best as possible. It’s important to cover the opening but to ensure that this temporary cover isn’t causing additional damage to the surrounding area.
If it’s doable, it may be worthwhile creating something that mimics the functionality of the existing roof material. That’ll help keep the leak at bay until a roofing contractor can come out.
Take photos for insurance usage
Photos are an important one because they’ll help for insurance purposes. Taking photos of the damage will help to claim if needed on the home insurance that’s currently in place. Be sure to timestamp these images too in order to show proof and when the damage occurred. All of this information can be helpful in processing a claim quickly and easily.
Call a professional roofing company
When there’s a leak found in the roofing, then a professional roofing company is required. A company like Christian Brothers Roofing are experts in providing replacements and fixes to a homeowner’s property. It’s important to pick the most reputable for a job like this one. It’s a valuable fix that needs to be done properly. As a result, it can often be an expensive repair job, so the homeowner will want it done right.
A leaking roof is not something that should be ignored, so make sure it’s seen immediately before it causes more damage.
One of the highlights of Paris Fashion Week is always the Chanel Runway Show. This year’s show was held at Paris’ Grand Palais Éphémère. Creative Director Virginie Viard created a line of playful yet sophisticated clothes for this upcoming season with a more modern edge. Noticeably showcased were shorter hemlines, touches of tweeds, splashes of pink and navy, and shining gold (LOVE, LOVE!!!!!). Shoes were much more simple in this collection, flats, lower heels, and of course, a few different takes on the brand’s signature slingbacks (still on my own wishlist!!!!).
Within a cinematic background, against a 360° cinema screen from the film “Last Year in Marienbad” (1961) by Alain Resnais, the CHANEL Spring-Summer 2023 Ready-to-Wear collection incites the very essence of “allure”. Exploring a woman’s freedom – of movement and of expression – Virginie Viard imagines a collage of glamour, swirling with modernity and lightness. Symbols of womanhood, from pearls and sequins to bows and feathers, alight upon silk chiffons, polka dots, and houndstooth tweeds. Sensuality abounds in the shifting proportions of softness, structure, and precious adornments. Mystery pervades in the intangible echoes of Gabrielle Chanel, executed with an innately modern hand.
“Last year in Marienbad” directed by Alain Resnais: © 1960 STUDIOCANAL – Argos Films – Cineriz. All Rights Reserved – Chanel.com
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Going abroad with our children is an exciting adventure. Some of us do it for the first time when our kids are very young, perhaps even babies. Others decide to wait until they are older. Some, of course, never do it, preferring to enjoy all that their home country has to offer while saving money on much cheaper options. Whenever you do it, a family holiday can be a magical experience, as well as a great way to spend time together away from all other distractions, and while you could argue that there’s something more glorious about seeing somewhere further from home, it’s also safe to say that there’s more stress involved.
When we go abroad with kids, there’s a lot to think about, whether they are babies or teens. You might worry about keeping them happy and comfortable on the flight, finding food that they’ll enjoy, and keeping them safe. You may also have concerns about buying everything that you might need at your destination. So, here are some tips to help you enjoy your first family trip outside of your home country.
Choose a Safe Destination
At the moment, finding a safe destination has a whole other range of concerns. You might want to check current Covid-19 infection levels and local restrictions, as well as the likelihood of facing a period in quarantine either when you arrive or when you get home. Many families are choosing to delay trips abroad until next year when the rest of the tips on this list will still be relevant.
Of course, even without a global pandemic, there are other safety considerations when traveling abroad, and you should always take your time to do some research before booking. Find a safe area, with positive reviews, and good access to health and security services, and consider staying in an English-speaking hotel for further support. Checking local news sites is always a good idea if you want to get a feel for how safe a destination is, away from the ever-positive travel guides and adverts.
Make Sure it’s Family Friendly
The accommodation that you choose should be family-friendly. Ideally, it should offer a kid’s club (even if you don’t use it, it’s a sign that they prioritize kid’s needs), a safe pool, a room with an extra bed, or cot and other things that you might need. Make sure your hotel offers food that your children will enjoy, and that there’s plenty for them to do.
Besides this, check if the location offers you to safeguard your luggage or not. For instance – places like Paris offer you the liberty of securing your luggage with luggage storage Paris services while you enjoy traveling. Seek details about such services from your travel agent in advance.
Think About What You Want from Your Holiday
A holiday with children isn’t the same as a holiday with just your partner or your friends. It isn’t even the same as a trip with family members who have children. It’s different. But that doesn’t mean that all family holidays are the same. Before booking your trip, think about what you want from yours. Do you want to spend a lot of time in the hotel, enjoying the facilities on offer? Do you plan to try local activities, or explore the surrounding area? Do you want plenty of tourist hotspots? Think about the kind of holiday you want and look for a destination that gives you what you need to achieve your family holiday.
Don’t Expect it to be the Same
Your days of being able to lay by the beach soaking up the sun, drinking cocktails, and reading in peace are over. So are your days exploring local nightlife? Prepare for a very different holiday and you won’t be disappointed.
Pack Carefully
When you are on your own you might wing it by packing your Emigre gear, knowing that you could probably get everything you need or at least something close to your destination. When you’ve got kids, things are different. They might need specific medications or sunscreens. You might also need nappies, creams, and wipes, and they’ll certainly need a sunhat and shades. Think about what your kids need, and make sure you pack them. If there’s no laundrette on site, you might want to take some hand wash detergent to prepare for accidents. Make sure you have all of these Travel Essentials for Family Getaways and you should be fine.
Take Some Home Comforts
Your kids might need some home comforts to help them to stay comfortable and sleep. Younger children might want a teddy or blanket. Older kids might want a favorite toy, and teens probably just need a phone charger.
Pay for Insurance
When you travel with kids’ insurance can be essential. Make sure any health needs, unexpected cancelations, or other issues are covered.
Prepare for the Journey
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Traveling with children can be stressful, and you’ll definitely need your holiday by the time you arrive. You might decide to drive, but most people fly, in which case, these tips might help.
Hand Luggage
Your hand luggage is very important when you’ve got kids. Make sure passports, tickets, and other documents are easy to find, that you have the cash to hand, and plenty of snacks for the journey. You’ll also want some activities to keep the kids happy, and any nappies and toiletries that you might need, and a spare set of clothes, just in case. Remember, if you are paying for a seat for your child, they also get their own hand luggage allowance.
Plan 20-Minute Activities
Kids have very short attention spans, add that to the excitement of a flight, anxiety, and any nerves that they may have, and keeping them calm might be difficult. So, plan activities in 20-minute blocks. Pack books and games, as well as electronic devices to keep them occupied.
Carefully Consider Snacks
Snacks are a very useful tool when it comes to keeping kids happy. But, think about it carefully. You don’t want anything too sticky, too smelly, or too likely to make them hyper or sick.
Don’t Stress
If you stress and worry, everything will be worse. Keep calm, take it as it comes, and try to enjoy yourself.
Get on the Plane Last
Many airlines will let passengers with young children get on the plane first. This can be a mistake. Let them burn energy running around the airport for as long as you can before they have to sit still.
Know the Rules
Make sure you know what you are allowed to take on the flight, and what has to go in the cabin bag. Check with the airline before leaving home if you have any doubts.
Don’t Strive for Perfection
Your holiday is unlikely to be perfect. Things will go wrong, there will be stress and the kids will get upset. This doesn’t mean that the whole holiday is ruined. Forget perfection and let yourself enjoy the adventure.
Greenwich Wine + Food is returning this October for its 10-year anniversary celebration. The multi-day event will feature a completely re-imagined Gala, festivities that recreate the most memorable experiences from the past decade and more. Beneficiaries include two national non-profit organizations with roots in Connecticut – The Jacques Pépin Foundation and Wholesome Wave.
The GWF 10th Anniversary Celebrity Chef Gala on Friday, October 7, honoring legendary chef Jacques Pépin, will include renowned chefs cooking and mingling with guests throughout the evening. The evening will begin with a 6:00pm VIP reception with Pépin, Michel Nischan (Wholesome Wave), Rocco DiSpirito, Maneet Chauhan,Bun Lai, Mary Giuliani and Spike Mendelsohn (for special ticketholders only). A cocktail reception will follow at 6:30pm, followed by the Chef’s Table dinner at 7:30pm. Confirmed chefs who will prepare a four-course meal in front of guests at their designated tables include:
- Carlos Baez (The Spread, El Segundo, Magic Pie);
- Jes Bengtson (Terrain Garden Café, Amis Trattoria);
- Arturo Franco-Camacho (Camacho Garage, Geronimo Tequila Bar and Southwest Grill, Shell & Bones Oyster Bar and Grill)
- Evans Corrales (The Restaurant at Rowayton Seafood);
- Albert DeAngelis (Eastend, Meditteraneo, Terra, Sole);
- Julio Genao (Prime Stamford);
- Michael Kaphan (Purdy’s Farmer & The Fish);
- Geoff Lazlo (Geoff Lazlo Food, The Country Table);
- Stephen Lewandowski (Townhouse);
- Nick Martschenko (South End, SE Uncorked, SE Back End);
- Emily Mingrone (Tavern on State, Provisions on State, Fair Haven Oyster Company);
- Forrest Pasternak (Bailey’s Backyard Farm to Table Restaurant);
- Debra Ponzek (Aux Delices);
- Jared Sippel (L’Ostal);
- Matt Storch (Match, Match Burger Lobster);
- Bill Taibe (The Whelk, Kawa Ni, Don Memo);
- Renee Touponce (Oyster Club);
- Luke Venner (Elm);
- Chad Welch (Coterie Table One).
In addition to this multi-course dinner, the evening will feature special programming to celebrate the incredible contributions that Pépin has made to the culinary world, as well as honor the 2022 class of Serendipity’s Most Innovative Chefs: Steven Chen (MIKU, Greenwich, CT), Will Friedman (Kawa Ni, Westport, CT), Jared Sippel (L’Ostal, Darien, CT) and Renee Touponce (Oyster Club, Mystic, CT). The evening will be capped off with dancing and music from DJ April Larken. Held at Abigail Kirsch The Loading Dock in Stamford, CT, this limited ticket event will allow guests to purchase pairs of seats or full tables for groups of 10 and select their preferred award-winning chef.
In addition to the Gala, unique, one-of-a-kind events will take place throughout the week at famed local restaurants and venues, such as a Seven Course Truffle Dinner at Greenwich-based Rosina’s, Mezcal Tasting and Dinner at Fairfield-based Geronimo Tequila Bar and Southwest Grill, Prohibition Pairing Cocktail Class at SONO 1420, Champagne and Chocolate Master Class at Fairfield-based BE Chocolat and more.
The 10-year anniversary celebration will continue in March 2023 with “The Big Easy,” honoring the sights, sounds and flavors of New Orleans with a mini–French Quarter at The Capitol Theatre in Port Chester, NY, featuring legendary New Orleans Chef/Restaurateur Dickie Brennan as the evening’s Master of Ceremonies. Special guests in attendance will include Michel Nischan, Mary Giuliani and more. The event will begin at 5:00pm with a private reception for special ticket holders, with doors opening to the dine-around event at 5:30pm. Celebrity and acclaimed area chefs will be serving traditional NOLA eats from 5:30pm-8:30pm; local craft brews, wine and iconic Bourbon Street cocktails will be served from 5:00pm-10:45pm. Adding to the evening’s celebration will be music beginning at 6:00pm from Dumpstaphunk (featuring Cyril Neville performing the music of The Meters), Big Head Todd and the Monsters and Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue.
For details, tickets and the full line-up of talent and events, visit https://serendipitysocial.com/greenwich-wine-food/.