Sylwia Bujak Oliver and 125 LIVE connect the socially isolated and enrich lives of all ages
By Erin Pagel

125 LIVE is more than a community center. It’s more than a fitness facility. Take just a few steps inside its doors, and it is clear that 125 Live is a whole lot more than expected. 125 Live (and its vibrant executive director) is a hidden gem of Rochester and a facility that offers something for everyone.   Continue reading →

Connecting women through spirituality
By Terri Allred

It seems that we are increasingly disconnected from each other and busy.  Many of us, as women, are looking for authentic connections, and we yearn to explore our spirituality in a safe and supportive environment. Diane Anderson, Marie Neher and Donna Magtibay came together as Sister Seekers to create just those opportunities.  Continue reading →

Soul sisters spend time together in coastal Maine
By Jennifer Visscher

Since society still struggles with disclosing and discussing health, many find themselves online looking for others with their disease. That is how our Minnesota and Maine friendship began.

Betsy Baker and I have Ankylosing Spondylitis, a systemic inflammatory disorder affecting the axial skeleton, peripheral joints, connective tissues (entheses), eyes, skin and intestines. People with AS often have extra-articular manifestations, such as inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis), psoriasis and uveitis. Continue reading →

By Tiffany Hansen
Photography by Fagan Studios

“Not all storms come to disrupt your life, some come to clear your path.” ~ Unknown

As this summer—with no shortage of rain—comes to an end, you can still embrace the healing power of this natural phenomenon through a session of raindrop therapy. It’s hidden in the hills of northern Rochester at Garden of Massage. Rosemary Schliep has owned and operated Garden of Massage for 18 years. She also taught massage therapy at Minnesota State College Southeast for eight years. She first heard of raindrop therapy when she was studying for her massage therapy degree. The power of the essential oils became immediately evident, and she chose to study aromatherapy further. Continue reading →

Sex After 50
By LuAnn Buechler

A great song title, but a much more difficult topic to address personally, would you agree? It’s no doubt on a lot of women’s minds, but it seems to be a taboo topic. News flash: Women are sexual beings, even as they age. They have needs and desires and have a right to a satisfying intimate life. Continue reading →

Perspectives from Master Healer Chunyi Lin
By LuAnn Buechler

Sex is sacred; however, it’s never spoken of in public and even rarely in personal relationships. Yet, it’s a very important part of life. After 50 women may find that they lack sex drive and it can be very painful. Unbeknownst, this is not only a female issue. Continue reading →

Using Music to Help Others and Make a Difference
By Alison Rentschler

Have you heard of music therapy and wondered what it’s about and how it helps people?   

Christina Wood, owner of Healing Rhythms Music Therapy, describes, “Music therapy is using music as our tool to help people regardless of age or ability.” Wood says, “Music therapists use music to promote comfort and ease pain for individuals in the hospital or at end of life, help children maintain developmental skills, and help promote healthy coping skills.” Continue reading →

Kayla Harwick’s Journey of Self-Love
By Terri Allred

“I embrace the idea of loving myself fully. I am a woman devoted to praising my strengths and successes. I assert the notion that I am inherently worthy and deserving.” ~ Author unknown.  

Kayla Harwick sits across the table from me at a local restaurant and describes her ordeal with an eating disorder that nearly took her life. She is calm, yet passionate, and tells me that she is sharing her experience so people know that there can be life after an eating disorder. In fact, she feels better about herself now than she ever has in her life. The journey, as difficult as it was, forged her into the person she is now. Continue reading →

Leads Winona Health with an Innovative Spirit
By Erin Pagel

About 50 miles east of Rochester, the city of Winona is nestled among sculpted bluffs and the fabled Mississippi river. It’s a city with traditional charm and character along with a growing sense of urbanity. Winona boasts an active art scene and abundant natural beauty, ready to be explored. This year, Winona celebrates 125 years of community-focused health care services at its homegrown hospital, Winona Health.  Continue reading →