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5 Outdoor Activities That Help Reset Your Nervous System This Spring

By Dr. Elise Rigney / April 5, 2026 / Comments Off on 5 Outdoor Activities That Help Reset Your Nervous System This Spring

Spending time outdoors is one of the most powerful ways to help your nervous system reset. Research consistently shows that nature exposure improves mood, lowers stress levels, and supports overall mental health. Source (American Psychological Association):https://www.apa.org/monitor/2020/04/nurtured-nature Here are a few simple ways to reconnect with nature this spring. Take a Daily Walk Even 10–15 minutes […]

Why Kids Carry Stress in Their Bodies Too

By Dr. Elise Rigney / April 1, 2026 / Comments Off on Why Kids Carry Stress in Their Bodies Too

Kids experience stress too — even when they don’t always have the words to explain it. School pressure, social dynamics, busy schedules, and screen time can all contribute to stress. According to the American Psychological Association, children often express stress physically through symptoms like headaches, stomachaches, and muscle tension. Source:https://www.apa.org/topics/children/stress Signs stress may show up […]

Spring Festivals & Farmers Markets in Northern Colorado

By Dr. Elise Rigney / March 29, 2026 / Comments Off on Spring Festivals & Farmers Markets in Northern Colorado

Spring marks the return of farmers markets and community festivals across Northern Colorado. Here are a few worth checking out this season. Fort Collins Farmers Market Local produce, handmade goods, live music, and family activities. Website:https://www.larimer.gov/extension/fort-collins-farmers-market Loveland Farmers Market A popular weekend market featuring Colorado farmers, fresh baked goods, and artisan vendors. Website:https://www.lovgov.org/services/parks-recreation/farmers-market Denver Union […]

Why Posture Gets Worse in Winter (And How to Reset It for Spring)

By Dr. Elise Rigney / March 25, 2026 / Comments Off on Why Posture Gets Worse in Winter (And How to Reset It for Spring)

Winter habits can quietly affect posture more than we realize. Between heavier clothing, more time indoors, increased screen time, and less physical activity, the body often adapts by falling into more rounded or hunched positions. Common winter posture issues include: According to Harvard Health, prolonged sitting and screen use can negatively affect posture and spinal […]

Best Easy Hikes for Families Near Fort Collins & Golden This Spring

By Dr. Elise Rigney / March 22, 2026 / Comments Off on Best Easy Hikes for Families Near Fort Collins & Golden This Spring

Spring is one of the best seasons to explore Northern Colorado’s trails. Snow begins melting, wildflowers start blooming, and temperatures become perfect for family outings. Here are some easy, family-friendly hikes near Fort Collins and Golden. Arthur’s Rock Trail – Lory State Park (Fort Collins) A favorite local hike with rewarding views of Horsetooth Reservoir. […]

How Stress Affects the Nervous System (And Why Your Body Feels It)

By Dr. Elise Rigney / March 18, 2026 / Comments Off on How Stress Affects the Nervous System (And Why Your Body Feels It)

Stress isn’t just something you feel emotionally — your entire nervous system experiences it physically. When life gets busy (work deadlines, family responsibilities, poor sleep, constant notifications), the body activates what’s known as the stress response. This response is controlled by the autonomic nervous system, which regulates things like heart rate, muscle tension, digestion, and […]