The Real Problem with Swine Flu

Everyone is worried about swine flu—as well we should be. If things escalate to pandemic level (which they may), we will all be in big trouble (although washing hands with soap and water is still the best defense). As you can read today on Rodale.com, some think the Mexico outbreak is a result of factory pig farming—by American companies who moved their factories to Mexico for cheaper labor, looser regulations, and therefore cheaper meat for Americans (there sure are a lot of major problems… more

How Canyon Ranch Saved My Life, Part 2

(Continued from Friday)

There, stretching with all the rest of us, was Julia Roberts! Later that night we all played bingo together. Needless to say, my dear husband was impressed.

I’ve seen other celebrities there, too, like Mary Tyler Moore. But going to Canyon Ranch isn’t so much about who you will see or meet—it’s about figuring out who you want to be and working toward making that a… more

How Canyon Ranch Saved My Life, Part 1

People often ask me how I do it all… run a family business, raise three healthy and happy girls, stay married, and volunteer for a number of nonprofit boards. Sometimes I wonder myself! But my stock (and true) answer is: I get help. I have lots of great people, from my babysitter who has been with me for 27 years, the landscaper who helps me do all the heavy lifting, and my husband who I can really trust to take care of the kids when I am away.

But help has also come in the form of Canyon… more

Why I Eat Meat (and You Might Want to Also)

Many people assume I’m a vegetarian. Some people even equate “organic” with “vegetarian.” I’ve experimented with vegetarian eating over the years. I’ve even dated vegetarians (well, one). Aside from the fact that I think it’s challenging to eat well and healthfully without eating meat, I truly enjoy eating meat and find it physically satisfying.

But I also love animals and believe they are conscious, emotional, and aware beings who suffer just like we do…even chickens! And… more

10 Ways to Get Fit Without Spending a Dime (or Causing Pollution)

Last week, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency finally, finally confessed that greenhouse gases are a health problem. I’m not surprised—except that it took so long. In any case, there is actually a lot that we can all do to cut our own greenhouse emissions, especially in our quest for fitness. It seems kind of crazy to think about getting fit as causing pollution. But when you get onto a… more