How many times have people told you to chill out (and if they didn’t use those exact words, that’s what they meant)?  I know I get told that more than I’d like to admit.  I allow things to get under my skin and ferment for days and sometimes weeks.  In times like these, I even think I need to chill out.  However, my problem always has been that I didn’t know how until The Anywhere, Anytime Chill Guide came along into my life.  This is a great book for several reasons.  First, there are 77 strategies in here.  If one doesn’t work for you, try the next.  There is truly something that can you in here.  I also love that it is an easy read.  I don’t need detailed directions stressing me when I am trying to chill out, and the author actually made it a really fun read.  There are statements in the book like “Here are some simple ways to keep your cool that you can do in a crowd without looking like a weirdo”.  Anytime you use weirdo, you score some bonus points.  I love that the book reinforces trusting your body, yet allows you to make changes in what you do for certain situations that raise your blood pressure.  Some of the situations I have been using the techniques for are road rage (I live in Chicago.  How can you not have road rage here.)  There is also some suggestions for motion sickness that I plan on trying out on our way to Green Bay tomorrow.

This is a book I highly recommend to anyone you know that needs to “chill” out.  This book is even great for those who seem to have it all under control.  It is funny, informative, and an easy read.  There is a lot of great advice for different situations that you may encounter.  This book helps you to simply feel better.

Do you recognize the two people to the left?  Look very close.  That is what Stephanie and Sportacus from LazyTown really look like!  Hard to believe, I know!  Lazytown is a show on Noggin and Nick Jr. that encourages your kids to get off their butts and be more active!  When asked about the inspiration for the show, Magnus (the shows creator and Sportacus) answered:

Really, when you get down to it, LazyTown is a state of mind. We’ve all been to LazyTown. When we decide to go “veg-out” on the couch, you could say you’re “in LazyTown.” Even me. It’s a place we all go.

In a funny way, LazyTown reflects characteristics that you see in yourself or in people around you. These characteristics are universal: It’s that dynamic of opposites.

For instance, in the show, Sportacus is a driving force. He’s fit, agile, and an amazing athlete who’s patient, kind, and understanding. He encourages kids through example. He doesn’t take the low road. Conversely, his adversary, Robbie Rotten, is all about easy solutions and pulling the group down to his level. Then there’s Stephanie, the lead kid character, a wide-eyed optimist who believes she can make a real difference; while Pixel, a boy character, can conquer every video game, but when the situations are real, he has a harder time.

Just like in real life, nobody’s perfect and LazyTowners are constantly trying to find ways to understand and improve themselves. I guess that you could say that LazyTown explores the opposing forces that we encounter in our own daily lives.

How is that for teaching your children? Most moms and kids that I have talked to like this show. Magnus knows what he is talking about too — he was the Icelandic Men’s Individual Champion in Aerobic Gymnastics in 1992. In 1993, he became the Scandinavian champion, and was the European champion twice in 1994 and 1995. He was voted Athlete of the Year by Iceland in 1994. Adding superhero to that resume just makes it twice as nice (and you know is his shape he doesn’t have to worry about getting term life insurance quotes).

Now, why should you and your children watch this?  It does get them off their butts.  I find Madison and Will dancing and singing with the show when its on.  It has taught my children that there is nothing wrong with going outside and playing.  On top of the activity lessons, there are moral lessons too.  Check your local schedule and see when you can watch it at your place.  You won’t be disappointed!