THE HEALTHY CORNER

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2024 Solar Eclipse: A once in a Lifetime Event

In just a few weeks, we will experience a once in a life time event!

The 2024 Solar Eclipse! While this is an exciting time, we must also use caution.

I have listed a few safety tips to help you be able to enjoy the Solar Eclipse.

• Do not look directly at the sun

• Do not use homemade filters or ordinary sunglasses, even very dark sunglasses

• Ensure your eyes are protected at all times by using solar eclipse viewers that meet international standard ISO 12312-2 for safe viewing

• Wear sunscreen, a hat, and protective clothing to prevent skin damage.

• Supervise your kids and go over the importance of not looking directly at the eclipse as they may be tempted to take off their glasses.

Hopefully you already know the first rule of eclipse safety is to never stare directly at the sun without the proper safety equipment.

Even when our solar system’s star is mostly covered, a sliver of radiation peeking past the moon is still enough to cause permanent damage to your retinas. This area in the back of the eyes is extremely sensitive to light, and direct exposure to ultraviolet rays can lead to scarring and a condition called “solar retinopathy.” Even if it doesn’t blind you fully, this type of injury can leave you with gray and blurry patches in your vision for the rest of your life.

So put on your safety glasses and enjoy this once in a lifetime event that you are privileged to witness.

“Moon Dust” Snacks

for Kids

1 box (12 ounces) Rice Chex cereal

2 cups semisweet chocolate chips

3/4 cup creamy peanut butter

1/3 cup butter, cubed 1 teaspoon vanilla

3 cups confectioners’ sugar

In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips, peanut butter, butter and vanilla. Microwave on high 30 seconds. Stir gently. Continue microwaving on high, stirring every 30 seconds, until melted and blended. Empty your box of cereal into a very large bowl. Pour the melted chocolate mixture over cereal; gently stir to coat. In batches, place confectioners’ sugar (moon dust) in a gallon-sized bag, add cereal mixture and shake until well coated. Spread cereal out on a baking sheet. Let stand until set. Store in airtight containers.

Exercise:

This week it’s very simple. Just walk in place for 15 to 20 minutes a day.

Remember to lift those knees up high!