Please see the rest of the 2019 NCW EcoChallenge photo gallery here
Upload your 2019 NCW EcoChallenge photohere 

Click on the link below to view the 22 photos in the 2016 Traveling Exhibit:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/pohncw/albums/72157668091525186

Hugging a tree and embracing life at North Cascades National Park near Stehekin. Submitted by Anne Brooks. Appreciating nature and the grandeur around us

13 months old, Lilah loves her vegetables and fruits! Photo submitted by Janice Badten.

Series title: "Take a Hike"
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the National Institute of Health (NIH) have both conducted heart-related studies on people who have pets. The findings showed that pet owners exhibit decreased blood pressure, cholesterol and triglyceride levels -- all of which can ultimately minimize their risk for having a heart attack down the road. For those who have already experienced a heart attack, research also indicates that patients with a dog or a cat tend to have better recovery rates. These benefits are thought to be connected with pets' tendency to help reduce or at least control their owners' overall stress levels.  If you can't own a dog consider volunteering at your local shelter to take advantage of the health benefits of being around animals!
 
** Models: Prissy and Leticia ** Submitted by: Quincy Animal Shelter **

Anne Brooks of Chelan is helping to bring the Picture of Health traveling exhibit to Chelan next year. To kick things off she submitted these photos that show  how yoga contributes to her health and that of her husband Randy. 

"A piece of my picture of health is being active, stretching, doing yoga, exercising and walking," Anne says. "Yoga is a huge part of being so active and staying healthy - it is  essential for me to incorporate yoga and exercise into my daily life. Throughout my day I continually am checking my posture, stretching and utilizing yoga postures and exercises, that keep me in good shape."

"When I'm busy with work (driving school bus) and other activities my stretching and exercising can easily get pushed aside. But it is the way I wake up and start my day...my morning "cup of coffee" (which I don't drink). It is a very important part of my life - a commitment to staying healthy.  So keep stretching and exercising daily!

Yoga is part of every day for Anne even when she is on vacation in China.  

Abby, the cat, seems to enjoy Anne's yoga moves as well.