Play Ball!

 

Robert Fettgather, Ph.D. is a counselor, educator, writer and activist residing in Grass Valley, California.  He holds a doctorate in psychology and master degrees in both psychology and education. In addition, Robert Fettgather is a baseball enthusiast.

Spring Training in baseball has become a revered tradition tracing its roots to the early days of baseball and evolving into a crucial component of the sport's annual calendar. 

In the late 1800s and early 1900s, teams began to recognize the advantages of heading south for their preseason preparations. The warmer climate in the southern United States provided an ideal environment for players to shake off the rust accumulated during the offseason. The Chicago White Stockings (now Cubs) are credited with being one of the first teams to organize an official Spring Training camp in Hot Springs, Arkansas, in 1886.

The mid-20th century saw the integration of Spring Training, as Major League Baseball teams began welcoming African American and Latino players to their camps. Spring Training became a microcosm of the changing dynamics within the sport, reflecting broader societal shifts. The integration of Spring Training camps played a crucial role in breaking down racial barriers in baseball.

Spring Training has become more than just a preparation period for players; it has evolved into a fan-friendly spectacle. The "Grapefruit League" in Florida and the "Cactus League" in Arizona draw baseball enthusiasts from around the country who relish the opportunity to watch their favorite teams up close in a more intimate setting. The economic impact on host cities is substantial, as Spring Training brings in tourism revenue and boosts local economies.

What began as informal workouts has transformed into a multi-billion-dollar industry, with Spring Training serving as a bridge between the offseason and the regular season. 

What You Eat!

 

The Institute for Personality and Ability Testing has certified Robert Fettgather as a Stress Management Trainer, and Medical Hypnosis Seminars of the Los Gatos Institute has certified him in Clinical Hypnotherapy.  At Santa Clara University, Graduate Department of Education and Counseling Psychology, Robert Fettgather's studies included Health Education and Behavioral Medicine.

What you eat is important to health and longevity. With a myriad of choices and approaches, this short essay will focus on one option: the Mediterranean Diet.

The Mediterranean diet is characterized by a rich variety of nutrient-dense foods that reflect the diverse cuisines of countries such as Greece, Italy, Spain, and southern France. Olive oil is a cornerstone of the Mediterranean diet, serving as the primary source of healthy monounsaturated fats. Fish, particularly fatty fish like salmon and mackerel, is a prominent protein source in the Mediterranean diet. This approach emphasizes a colorful array of fruits and vegetables.

The diet's focus on whole, nutrient-dense foods, coupled with the inclusion of healthy fats, promotes satiety and can contribute to weight management. The abundance of fruits, vegetables, and olive oil in the diet provides a range of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, potentially reducing inflammation in the body.

Beyond its nutritional benefits, the Mediterranean diet holds cultural significance as a way of life. It embodies the social aspects of communal dining, where meals are shared with family and friends, fostering a sense of connection and well-being.

The Mediterranean diet presents a holistic and sustainable approach to nutrition that extends beyond individual plates to embrace a way of life that promotes longevity and vitality. Why not give it a try?