Blog Archives - Page 3 of 23

6 Ways Playing Guitar Boosts Mental Well-Being

April 1, 2025/0 Comments/in Blog/by Kevin Guest

April’s convergence of International Guitar Month and Stress Awareness Month makes a perfect pairing that celebrates the healing power of music for mental well-being.

While music has long been heralded as a universal remedy, the guitar offers far more than just melodies. Studies, stories, and specialists alike agree: playing the guitar is a proven method to reduce stress.

Music has the extraordinary ability to uplift and inspire. As someone who’s played guitar for years, I encourage everyone to immerse themselves in the joy of playing guitar this month. It’s a simple, powerful way to enhance your well-being.

Striking the Right Chord: Playing Guitar Creates Harmony

I believe playing guitar nurtures both mind and soul. Here are six ways I’ve found the instrument to boost mental well-being.

Stress Escape: Anyone can lose themselves in music and find calm in the strums.
Boosted Mood: Playing guitar releases dopamine, the happiness chemical.
Mindfulness: Focusing on music reduces anxiety and centers one’s mind.
Social Connection: Sharing music builds powerful, emotional bonds.
Creative Outlet: Songwriting expresses emotions and eases stress.
Better Sleep: Relaxing guitar sessions lead to improved rest.

In All the Right Reasons: 12 Timeless Principles for Living a Life in Harmony, I emphasize how music minimizes stress and strengthens relationships that matter. When I was young, I lived music down to my bones, and harmonies played constantly in my head. I wanted to be a rock star more than anything else.

Today, music speaks to the soul like nothing else can. This love for music, this awe I have for the process, has been with me for as long as I can remember. Music has transformed my life and offered calmness and clarity where there was chaos. When anxiety takes hold, a melody actually soothes my nerves. Whether it’s a soft tune or a lively rhythm with bands I play in, music brings a peace I never thought possible. It’s been my strength, saving me more times than I can count.

I shared a version of this article in a news release on April 1, 2025. All the Right Reasons provides more inspiring examples of the power of music. All proceeds go to feeding hungry children, and each book purchase provides 40 meals. 

USANA Health Sciences, a global leader in health and wellness products, has long recognized the importance of social wellness in building a successful business. From its founding in 1992, USANA has focused on clear and concise communication to build trust with its customers and distributors in 25 countries. For more information about USANA Health Sciences and its dedication to promoting health, wellness, and entrepreneurial success, visit USANA.com. 

Celebrating National Let’s Laugh Day

March 19, 2025/0 Comments/in Blog/by Kevin Guest

Laughter truly is the best medicine, and every March 19, we honor its incredible power on National Let’s Laugh Day. It’s a joyful reminder of the simple yet profound impact laughter has on our minds, bodies, and relationships. Think about the last time you had a good laugh. Didn’t everything feel just a little brighter, a little easier?

I love Marjorie Pay Hinckley’s quote. She said, “The only way to get through life is to laugh your way through it. You either have to laugh or cry. I prefer to laugh. Crying gives me a headache.”

Laughter isn’t just a fleeting moment of joy; it’s a fountain of benefits. For starters, it’s a natural stress reliever. When you laugh, your body releases endorphins (those feel-good chemicals), which instantly reduces tension. It’s like giving your mind a mini vacation!

But the benefits don’t stop there. Laughter improves mental health by lifting moods and combating feelings of anxiety or depression. It also strengthens social connections. Sharing a laugh fosters trust and creates bonds, whether it’s over a funny story with friends or joking with coworkers.

Physically, laughter does wonders. It strengthens your immune system, leaving you better equipped to fight off illnesses. It even boosts heart health by increasing blood flow and improving circulation. (Who knew giggles could be so good for the body?)

And in case you’ve never noticed, laughter sparks creativity. When you’re relaxed and happy, your brain gets into problem-solving mode, opening doors to those “lightbulb” moments. It also contributes to resilience; a great laugh can help you recover after setbacks, making challenges feel less daunting.

This March 19, why not lean into the spirit of the day? Spend time sharing laughs with those closest to you. Watch your favorite comedy, tell a silly joke, or even try a laughter yoga session (yes, that’s a thing!).

Laughter doesn’t have to stop after today. Imagine what a little more humor could do in your everyday life. At USANA, we value moments of connection and joy because we know how much they contribute to a healthy, happy lifestyle. What’s one small way you can add more laughter to your routine?

Whether you’re cracking jokes, finding humor in life’s quirks, or simply cherishing those moments of shared joy, laughter is meant to be celebrated. This National Let’s Laugh Day, take the first step toward laughter-filled days. Your mind, body, and relationships will thank you!

Are we connected on LinkedIn? There, I share posts about professional development skills, self-care reminders, and more.

3 Proven Steps for Active Listening

March 3, 2025/0 Comments/in Blog/by Kevin Guest

Listening, I believe, is one of the most underrated tools to connect with others. It’s through listening that we truly meet people where they are, and I’ve experienced its life-changing impact firsthand. I encourage exploring and celebrating the transformational power of listening. It can strengthen personal and professional relationships and foster deeper understanding.

In my book, “All the Right Reasons: 12 Timeless Principles for Living a Life in Harmony,” I recall a pivotal moment when I sought advice from motivational speaker Denis Waitley regarding my young son’s behavioral challenges. Feeling a growing frustration as a parent, I feared my response might escalate the situation.

Denis’ advice was simple yet profound: don’t punish by removing something tied to their self-esteem. Trusting this counsel, my wife and I paused, listened intently to our son, and discovered the root of the problem — a need for understanding, not correction. That moment, guided by listening, prevented a major parenting mistake and deepened the parent-son bond in ways we never expected.

Another striking example came when a friend confided in me about a strained relationship with someone in their life. Instead of offering premature solutions, I listened without judgment. By giving my friend the space to share openly, I helped them feel understood and validated. The tension they carried began to dissolve simply because someone cared enough to truly hear them. Sometimes, listening is the most powerful gift you can give.

3 Proven Steps to Improve Active Listening

To inspire others to hone their listening skills, here are three proven steps for active listening:

1. Seek First to Understand

Inspired by Stephen R. Covey’s teachings, this principle encourages focused, empathetic listening. Instead of planning your response, aim to fully grasp the other person’s thoughts and emotions.

2. Listen to Your Inner Voice

Active listening isn’t just external. Assess your own biases, assumptions, and mental distractions. When you’re mindful of your inner dialogue, you can approach listening with greater clarity.

3. Lead with Empathy

Engage not only with your ears but with your heart. By imagining yourself in the other person’s position, you can respond with compassion and create stronger, more authentic connections.

A Relationship-Strengthening Superpower

Listening is not merely a soft skill; it’s a superpower that strengthens relationships and fosters goodwill. This March, I invite everyone to reflect on how intentional listening can amplify personal and professional success. Whether in boardrooms or living rooms, listening has the potential to rebuild trust, diffuse conflict, and nurture growth.

Listening starts with a choice. It’s about showing up for others, being present, and moving beyond surface-level conversations. This month is a vital reminder of how each of us can make our world better, one conversation at a time.

I shared a version of this article in a news release on March 3, 2025. All the Right Reasons provides more inspiring examples of the power of listening. All proceeds go to feeding hungry children, and each book purchase provides 40 meals. 

USANA Health Sciences, a global leader in health and wellness products, has long recognized the importance of social wellness in building a successful business. From its founding in 1992, USANA has focused on clear and concise communication to build trust with its customers and distributors in 25 countries. For more information about USANA Health Sciences and its dedication to promoting health, wellness, and entrepreneurial success, visit USANA.com. 

Kindness is Forever: Extending the Spirit of Valentine’s Day

February 18, 2025/0 Comments/in Blog/by Kevin Guest

Valentine’s Day has long been connected with grand gestures of love—bouquets of roses, handwritten notes, candlelit dinners. But at its core, that day is about something deeper and more universal—kindness. Kindness fuels relationships, strengthens community, and, most importantly, makes us human. While February 14 prompts many to express affection, why stop there? Why not find ways to extend this generosity and warmth for the rest of the year?

The Ripple Effect of Kindness

Kindness is more than a simple act; it’s a ripple that spreads outward, touching lives in ways we often can’t predict. Remember the cashier who greeted you warmly or the stranger who held the door open? These small gestures can change moods in an instant.

There’s a story of a woman who anonymously left flowers on her neighbors’ porches each week. One day, she found a note tucked into her mailbox. It was from a neighbor who had been battling depression, and those flowers had given them a reason to hold on. Flowers! This is the power of kindness—a power we underestimate but one that has the potential to change lives.

Now, imagine if each of us committed to kindness. What would our communities look like? How much more connected, empathetic, and supportive would our world become?

Practical Ways to Practice Kindness Daily

You don’t need to orchestrate grand acts to make an impact. Kindness often lies in the quiet, everyday moments. Wondering how to incorporate it into your routine? Here are some simple yet powerful ways to do so:

1. Show appreciation freely.

Have you thanked your family member or co-worker who always pitches in without being asked? Or told a friend how much you value their guidance? Gratitude costs nothing and yet holds immense value.

2. Be present in your interactions.

How often are we distracted when talking to others, scrolling through our devices, or thinking about something else? Take a moment to be present and really listen. Ask how someone is doing—and genuinely show interest in their response.

3. Offer unexpected generosity.

Whether it’s covering the cost of a meal for someone in need or sharing a positive review about a local small business, giving with no expectation of return can create unexpected joy.

Kindness isn’t just a gift to others; it benefits you as well. Studies have shown that acts of kindness release endorphins and even lower blood pressure. It’s a win-win situation for both the giver and the receiver.

A Year-Round Call to Action

Valentine’s Day serves as an important reminder of the power of love, but why confine that spirit to a single day? By weaving kindness into the fabric of our daily lives, we can contribute to a more compassionate world. Here are three actionable ideas you can take on to spread kindness throughout the year:

1. Write a thoughtful note.

Leave a kind note on a coworker’s desk, send an encouraging text to a friend, or place a thank-you card in your neighbor’s mailbox. Small, heartfelt messages can brighten someone’s day and make them feel valued.

2. Compliment someone sincerely.

Whether it’s a stranger, colleague, or family member, offer a genuine compliment. A simple “I love how creative you are” or “Your positivity inspires me” can have a big effect.

3. Spend time with someone who might feel lonely.

Visit an elderly neighbor, call a relative you haven’t spoken with in a while, or invite a friend out. Your presence and attention—showing them that you “see” them—can mean so much more than you realize.

When we welcome kindness into our lives, it changes everything. It softens arguments, strengthens relationships, and fosters a world where empathy becomes the norm. Everyone has the capacity to make this shift, beginning with the smallest action.

This February, as we celebrate love in all its forms, remember that kindness is its most enduring expression. Extend it freely, cultivate it intentionally, and watch how it transforms not only the lives of others but your own.

5 Strategies to Build Stronger Self-Esteem Every Day

February 3, 2025/0 Comments/in Blog/by Kevin Guest

Throughout February, I invite you to celebrate International Boost Self-Esteem Month. This month is dedicated to building confidence, fostering self-worth, and inspiring personal empowerment.

Because self-esteem is the cornerstone of a healthy, fulfilling life—shaping relationships, fueling careers and influencing overall well-being—now the ideal time for individuals to prioritize themselves and take meaningful steps toward becoming more confident and empowered.

A healthy self-esteem energized me to power through a colossal failure to lead a billion-dollar global company.

After presenting to executives at a major U.S. retailer, I was bluntly told I had “completely wasted” their time, which spiraled me into an all-time low.

As I write in All the Right Reasons: 12 Timeless Principles for Living a Life in Harmony, “We were shot down in such an embarrassing manner and absolutely demoralized that my business partner and I could have told ourselves we were failures, that we had no business being in video production. Instead, we determined to use our failure as a stepping stone for our success.”

During a long layover in Denver, my business partner and I wrote a business plan on the back of about 20 napkins. This gutsy feat launched our careers to higher levels than we imagined.

This month offers a unique opportunity to pause, reflect, and take meaningful steps toward valuing yourself more deeply. Everyone has setbacks, but the success secret lies in how you respond. And that starts with boosting your self-esteem.

Self-Esteem Building Strategies

To make this month inspirational and actionable, here are five effective strategies for building stronger self-esteem every day.

1. Practice Self-Compassion

Give yourself the grace you’d offer a close friend. Start each day by treating yourself with kindness. When you make a mistake, remind yourself that no one is perfect and instantly replace self-criticism with supportive words like “I’m doing the best I can.”

2. Set Achievable Goals

Building self-esteem comes from celebrating progress, not perfection. Break larger goals into small, actionable steps because tracking your wins—no matter how small—will boost confidence.

3. Challenge Negative Thoughts

Negative self-talk can feel automatic, but push back. Ask yourself, “Is this thought based on fact or an unfair assumption?” Replace critical self-talk with statements that reflect your strengths.

4. Practice Daily Gratitude

Gratitude is powerful and shifts focus from what’s missing to what’s meaningful. Each day, write down three things you’re grateful for. This practice rewires your brain to recognize the good and build a habit of optimism.

5. Learn Assertiveness Skills

The ability to assert your thoughts, needs, and boundaries with confidence is essential for healthy relationships and self-respect. Practice saying how you feel and what you need in calm but firm tones. Assertiveness isn’t aggression; it’s self-respect in action.

Discover Your Best Qualities

Each day of International Boost Self-Esteem Month is an opportunity to take small but powerful steps toward a better version of yourself. Remember, these strategies aren’t about overhauling who you are. They’re about discovering and celebrating your best qualities.

I shared a version of this article in a news release on Feb. 3, 2025. All the Right Reasons provides more inspiring examples of the power of boosting self-esteem. All proceeds go to feeding hungry children, and each book purchase provides 40 meals. 

8 Surprising Benefits of National Do Nothing Day

January 15, 2025/0 Comments/in Blog/by Kevin Guest

Could you imagine dedicating an entire day to doing absolutely nothing? At first glance, it might sound unproductive, even counterintuitive. But that’s the beauty of National Do Nothing Day (Jan. 16). It’s a chance to slow down, reset, and reflect in a world that constantly glorifies busyness. And while it may seem like a trivial observance, its benefits are anything but. Taking an intentional pause—even for just a few minutes—can unlock some powerful benefits.

National Do Nothing Day offers a chance to reconnect with yourself. When you strip away distractions, you can listen to your thoughts, immerse yourself in the present moment, and simply be.

Here are eight surprising reasons why doing nothing, even for a day, could be one of the best decisions you make for yourself and your well-being.

1. Recharge Your Mental Battery

Life can feel like a constant sprint. Work deadlines, personal obligations, and endless notifications keep your brain in overdrive. But just like a phone needs to be plugged in to recharge, your mind needs time to rest as well.

Taking a step back, even briefly, helps reduce stress and fend off burnout. By doing nothing, you give your brain the chance to reset, leading to better mental clarity and emotional resilience. Think of it as a much-needed reboot for your inner system.

2. Boost Productivity in the Long Run

Here’s a paradox for you: doing less can help you achieve more. Research shows that intentional breaks can sharpen focus, improve efficiency, and enhance overall performance. Consider this—ever notice how stepping away from a tough problem often leads to sudden solutions when you least expect them? By temporarily pausing, you give your mind the space it needs to recharge and regain focus. Could slowing down be the secret to conquering your to-do list? Absolutely.

3. Reclaim Presence

How often do you feel truly present? Between work emails and endless social media scrolling, moments of mindfulness can feel rare.

National Do Nothing Day offers a chance to reconnect with yourself. When you strip away distractions, you can listen to your thoughts, immerse yourself in the present moment, and simply be. Whether it’s sipping your morning drink without multitasking or going for a quiet walk, the act of doing nothing can help you rediscover the beauty of now.

4. Foster Creativity

Albert Einstein famously said, “Creativity is the residue of time wasted.” And he wasn’t wrong. Unstructured time is fertile ground for innovation and inspiration.

Remember those “aha!” moments that come while you’re daydreaming? That’s no coincidence. Creativity often emerges when we least expect it. By allowing your mind to wander, you make room for fresh ideas and new perspectives to emerge. Who knows what creative breakthroughs you might stumble upon during National Do Nothing Day?

5. Strengthen Your Relationships

Doing nothing doesn’t mean being alone. It’s also an opportunity to nurture your relationships. When’s the last time you gave someone your undivided attention—no phones, no distractions, just connection? Use this pause to spend quality time with loved ones. Whether it’s a simple conversation or a quiet moment together, those acts of presence can create lasting bonds.

6. Rediscover Joy in Simplicity

Our lives are often a whirlwind of busyness, but have you noticed how the simplest things can bring the most joy? The warmth of the sun, the sound of birds chirping, or the laughter shared with a friend—these moments are easy to miss when we’re rushing.

On Do Nothing Day, allow yourself to slow down and savor the small details. You might find that happiness lives in the quiet, simple moments.

7. Improve Decision-Making

Ever felt overwhelmed by choices? That’s decision fatigue—a mental overload that leads to poorer judgment.

Taking intentional time to rest can clear the mental clutter, making it easier to think through decisions. Whether it’s personal or professional, giving yourself space to reflect can result in smarter, more confident choices.

8. Challenge the Craze of Busyness

We live in a culture that equates busyness with importance. The longer your to-do list, the more successful you seem. But does being busy really define your worth?

National Do Nothing Day is a quiet rebellion against this mindset. It reminds us that rest is not laziness and that your value isn’t tied to how much you accomplish. Sometimes, stepping back is the most powerful statement you can make.

Pause to Thrive

National Do Nothing Day may sound unproductive on the surface, but its benefits are far-reaching. From boosting mental clarity to fostering deeper relationships, it’s a day designed to help you refocus and recharge.

And the best part? You don’t need to wait to reap the rewards of doing nothing. Whether it’s a few minutes, an afternoon, or an entire day, giving yourself permission to pause can make all the difference.

Are you ready to do…nothing?

6 Steps to Elevate Your Quality of Life

January 2, 2025/0 Comments/in Blog/by Kevin Guest

During International Quality of Life Month, I urge individuals to focus on what truly matters—mental well-being, self-care, financial health, physical fitness, lifelong learning, and meaningful relationships.

With today’s rapid progress, intentionality and small steps toward balance are critical during times of unprecedented change and possibility.

Life is moving faster than ever, but the most critical investment we can make is in ourselves. People who have faith tend to act. They take risks and move forward with hope, enthusiasm, and confidence that things will work out.

In All the Right Reasons, I write, “Brad Henry, former Governor of Oklahoma, said, ‘Believe in yourself, and the rest will fall into place. Have faith in your own abilities, work hard, and there is nothing you cannot accomplish.’ I’ve found that having faith and belief in yourself is one of the fundamental keys to success and happiness.”

6 Actionable Steps to Foster Personal Growth

To inspire action, here are six actionable steps anyone can take this month to elevate their quality of life and foster personal growth:

1. Prioritize Mental Well-Being

Set aside time to care for your mental health. Whether through mindfulness, therapy, journaling, or simply unplugging from screens, ensure your mind gets the rest and nourishment it needs.

2. Practice Consistent Self-Care

Dedicate moments to recharge, whether through hobbies you love, enjoying nature, or finding joy in small daily rituals. Self-care isn’t indulgence—it’s a necessity, which is why I play in two bands. For me, music is medicine for the soul.

3. Strengthen Financial Health

Build financial confidence by creating a budget, setting small but meaningful savings goals, or learning about smart money management strategies.

4. Commit to Physical Fitness

Move your body regularly, whether it’s through walking, yoga, strength training, or a sport you enjoy. Consistent activity improves both physical and mental health.

5. Pursue Lifelong Learning

I love to engage my mind by exploring new skills, books, or online courses. Growth doesn’t end with formal education—there’s always more to discover, and it’s fascinating on several levels.

6. Cultivate Meaningful Relationships

Take time to nurture the connections that matter. Reach out to loved ones, have thoughtful conversations, or establish new connections that inspire positivity.

By focusing on these areas, you can see growth in key dimensions of life. Aligning efforts in these vital aspects will enhance personal well-being and enable you to thrive in an era of extraordinary advancement and transformation.

I shared these thoughts in a news release published on Jan. 2, 2025. More inspiring examples of the power of intentionality and self-care are shared throughout the best-selling All the Right Reasons, where all proceeds go to feeding hungry children. Each book purchase provides 40 meals.

Give Yourself the Gift of Self-Care This Holiday Season

December 16, 2024/0 Comments/in Blog/by Kevin Guest

The holiday season is synonymous with giving—thoughtfully wrapped packages, handwritten cards, and heartfelt gestures. But here’s a quick question for you: where are you on your gift-giving list? With the hustle and bustle of the season, it’s easy to overlook yourself.

This year, I’d like you to rethink the concept of giving by placing your own well-being at the top of your priorities. Transform this holiday into a time of self-care alongside the usual celebrations. Why? Because when you care for yourself, you’re able to spread more joy to those around you.

To help, I’m sharing seven practical self-care strategies designed to fit seamlessly into even the busiest holiday schedules. You deserve this.

1. Create Your Morning as Your Haven

Begin your day with a small, nourishing practice to center yourself. It doesn’t need to be elaborate—five minutes of journaling, quiet reflection without distractions, or practicing gratitude. Starting the day grounded can set a positive tone and reduce stress. Tip: Write a short gratitude list. The double dose of quiet and reflection can work wonders.

2. Prioritize a Sweet Treat for Your Soul

What’s something indulgent that makes you smile? Whether it’s a seasonal food, your favorite candle scent, or diving into a book, treat yourself to something purely enjoyable. Why not wrap it up as a gift to yourself? It doesn’t have to cost much—it’s the intention that counts.

3. Say ‘No’ Without Guilt

During the holidays, invitations and commitments pile up. Accepting everything might seem festive, but it often leaves you drained. This year, give yourself the freedom to say no to anything that doesn’t align with your energy or schedule. Saying no can feel uncomfortable at first, but it’s an act of self-respect. Bonus? It leaves more time for the events that truly bring you joy.

4. One Hour, No Screens, All Peace

This one can be tricky, but between holiday shopping, group messages, and endless event photos, screen time skyrockets in December. Try carving out one hour each day—perhaps during dinner or before bed—to unplug completely. The mental clarity you’ll gain is a gift you can use to reconnect with those around you or to simply recharge.

5. Take a Walk (Even If It’s Chilly)

Moving your body doesn’t have to mean squeezing in a gym session; a simple walk outdoors can boost your mood and energy. If it’s cold, bundle up, hit the sidewalk, and enjoy the crisp air. Studies show that moderate physical activity can release endorphins and alleviate holiday stress.

6. Bring Back Your Happy Place

Remember that thing you used to do Just. For. Fun? Painting, baking, singing and playing music—whatever lights you up. Revisit it, even if just for a little while. Hobbies have the power to transport us away from the rush, grounding us in the moment. It’s nostalgia and creativity rolled into one delightful package.

7. Unwrap the Gift of Relaxation

One of the most underestimated forms of self-care is rest. Whether it’s a full eight hours of sleep or simply pausing between tasks, rest replenishes your energy. Closing your eyes brings instant relief. Still feel guilty about downtime? Think of it as recharging your batteries so you can be at your best for those around you.

Why Self-Care Matters This Year

With holiday excitement comes increased expectations, social commitments, and to-do lists. Taking care of yourself protects you from burnout and allows you to genuinely enjoy this magical season.

Studies show that self-care reduces stress, boosts happiness, and improves overall health. How can you pour from an empty cup? By tending to your well-being, you ensure there’s more of you to share.

This season, reclaim the joy of giving and the peace of the season by including yourself on the list. Wrapping yourself in care isn’t selfish—it’s essential. When you prioritize these moments, you’ll find yourself thriving, not just surviving, through the holidays. Smile, exhale, and repeat after us, I deserve this.

Build Joy Through These 5 Meaningful Acts of Generosity

December 2, 2024/0 Comments/in Blog/by Kevin Guest

Create joy, spread kindness, and uplift our communities through acts of generosity, whether big or small. I’m encouraging each of us to promote compassion and connection as we celebrate National Build Joy Day. This special day is a powerful reminder of the impact thoughtful actions can have on individuals and society.

National Build Joy Day, which takes place each Dec. 2, is an incredible opportunity to reflect on the positive changes we can create. It doesn’t take a monumental effort to make someone’s day brighter. Even the smallest gesture of kindness can leave a lasting impact.

My call to action is simple — look for ways to lift others. In doing so, we also lift ourselves.

Look within your circles for examples of kindness. In the ways that really count, my parents were truly extraordinary. They lived their lives serving and teaching others, not the least of whom were their children. Virtue meant something to my mom and dad, and threads of kindness, hard work, and integrity wove the strong cords of character in their lives.

My parents’ lessons, both spoken and lived, shaped the man I have become and the person I still hope to be.

5 Ways to Build Joy in Your Communities

To support this call to action, here are five ways to build joy in your community.

1. Volunteer Your Time

Offer your time to local shelters, food banks, or non-profits. A few hours donated can provide much-needed support to organizations serving those in need.

2. Perform Random Acts of Kindness

Pay for someone’s lunch, leave a thoughtful note, or help a neighbor with errands. These small acts can brighten someone’s day.

3. Express Gratitude Publicly

Recognize the hard work of frontline workers or thank someone whose kindness inspires you. Gratitude creates ripples of positivity.

4. Organize a Community Event

Bring neighbors together by hosting a park clean-up, a food drive, or a donation swap. Shared efforts foster unity and connection.

5. Donate to a Worthy Cause

Contribute financially or donate items, such as clothes or non-perishable food, to organizations making a difference in your area.

#BuildJoyDay

National Build Joy Day amplifies these kinds of efforts. It’s a chance for individuals and groups alike to think creatively about making life better for others.

Joy is contagious. When you give to others, you also give to yourself. You create a cycle of positivity that strengthens individuals, families, and entire communities.

I invite everyone to share their acts of kindness using #BuildJoyDay on social media to inspire others and celebrate the day together. By working collectively, we can make National Build Joy Day a memorable and impactful occasion.

I shared these thoughts in a news release published on National Build Joy Day, Dec. 2, 2024. More inspiring examples of joy and kindness are found throughout All the Right Reasons, where all proceeds go to feeding hungry children. Each book purchase provides 40 meals.

Recipes Roundup: From the USANA Kitchen

November 29, 2024/0 Comments/in Blog/by Kevin Guest

USANA Kitchen is a What’s Up, USANA? blog series featuring easy-to-make, nutritious recipes. Led by Shelli Baxter, USANA’s Executive Director of Global Nutrition Programs, the entire series of recipes can be found at https://whatsupusana.com/tag/usana-kitchen/

Here are a few highlights…

Protein Acai Bowl

1 frozen banana, chopped into chunks
1 cup (140 g) frozen mixed berries
½ cup (120 g) plant-based milk
1 tablespoon (10 g) acai powder
2 scoops of whey protein isolate
Sliced fruit, nuts, seeds, granola to top (optional)

Add the banana, berries, and milk to a blender.
Blend on low until smooth and creamy.
Add whey protein isolate and stir in on the lowest blend speed.
Pour into a bowl.
Top with fruit, nuts, seeds, and/or granola as desired.

Originally published Sept. 30, 2024, with full recipe, detailed step-by-step instructions, and nutrition information.

Protein Powered Green Drink

12 ounces (375 g) of chilled coconut water
1 cup (180 g) of spinach
2 small kiwis or 1 large kiwi, peeled
2 scoops of Whey Protein Isolate

Add coconut water, kiwi, and spinach to a blender.
Blend well at medium speed until desired consistency.
Add whey protein isolate and stir at the lowest speed to mix.
Pour into a tall glass.
Add ice if desired.

Originally published Aug. 22, 2024, with full recipe, detailed step-by-step instructions, and nutrition information.

Digestive Health Berry Parfait

This USANA Kitchen recipe comes from Russ Barton, Ask the Scientists nutritionist.

8 ounces (240 g) high protein vanilla Greek yogurt
½ cup (65 g) raspberries
½ cup (75 g) blueberries
½ cup (56 g) granola
2 ounces (21 g) of chopped pecans
1 rounded teaspoon (5 g) of Fibergy Active

Add raspberries to the bottom of a stemmed glass.
Top with ¼ cup granola and 1 ounce of chopped pecans.
In a bowl, mix 1 rounded teaspoon of Fibergy Active into the yogurt.
Scoop into glass on top of raspberries and nuts.
Top with blueberries, ¼ cup granola, and 1 ounce chopped pecans.

Originally published June 26, 2024, with full recipe, detailed step-by-step instructions, and nutrition information.

For more health and nutrition information, including additional recipes, bookmark the What’s Up, USANA? blog.