Traditions of Hanover residents embrace 2021 with positivity

“We choose joy” is more than a catchphrase for residents at Traditions of Hanover, a retirement living community in Bethlehem.

“It’s our mantra,” Executive Director Cathy Heimsoth expressed. “With a year defined by COVID-19, it’s hard to keep a positive outlook, especially when other hardships continue to occur, but our residents and staff have welcomed 2021 with open arms, with a fresh new outlook!”

While researchers continue to explore the effects of positive thinking, it has been linked to incredible health benefits, including increased life span, lower rates of depression, greater resistance to the common cold, and better cardiovascular health, according to the Mayo Clinic.

At Traditions of Hanover, resident Ray Brennan co-hosts a weekly group session called “Spiritual Deepening.” During a recent session, Brennan, an ordained minister of spiritual science and coauthor of the book “The Legacy of the Chosen One,” focused on meditation to help other residents eliminate negativity, fear, and stress affecting their lives.

Brennan also spoke to the group about metaphysical principles, using his mind and imagination above all to surround things with light.

“I surround myself with a divine light and see (the light) surrounding me in my mind so only that which is Godlike can come to me,” he explained. “It’s a different way of praying that works.”

Brennan uses his teaching to help himself overcome his own hardships. His daughter passed away in 2007 from pancreatic cancer, and unexpectedly amid the pandemic, his wife lost her battle to the same disease.

“In my grief, I turn to my ministerial teachings to help others keep a positive mindset by lifting them up through prayer and encouragement,” Brennan said. “Knowing that I can help my friends and neighbors here brings me comfort.”

For nine years, Connie Huber has called Traditions of Hanover home. She has embraced retirement living, exploring her interests and talents through various activities, attending socially distant events, and spending time with friends—always with a smile.

Underneath her charismatic demeanor, Huber is fighting back against a rare disorder in which her body’s immune system attacks her nerves called Guillain-Barre syndrome.

Although a few bouts with the debilitating disease has required hospitalization, including, most recently, over the holidays, she continues to manage her recovery with therapy services from FOX Rehabilitation conveniently offered on-site at Traditions of Hanover.

“I’m grateful to be able to get the therapy I need here. Traditions of Hanover staff and FOX Rehab are wonderful!” she said.

But when times do get a little tough, she offers some words of wisdom to others, “Surround yourself with good people, good friends, and your family. They will help see you through.”

These unprecedented times have caused financial turmoil, health challenges, and other unpleasant scenarios that have caused a tidal wave of negative emotions that significantly impact whole-body wellness.

“Having a negative mindset can do nothing but cause more despair,” Heimsoth said. “This is why we choose joy. Having a positive outlook makes all the difference in your mental, physical and spiritual health.”