Click Here To View All Our Corporate Sponsors

March President's Message - Dr. Guillermo Chacon

"Spring won't let me stay in this house any longer! I must get out and breathe the air deeply again." Gustav Mahler

As the days get longer and the weather gets warmer, we welcome the arrival of spring with open arms. It is a season of growth, renewal, and fresh beginnings. I hope this newsletter finds you well and ready to embrace all the joys spring has to offer.

The first thing that always jumps in front of us while thinking of this season is spring cleaning. Sometimes this is just a routine exercise we tackle without much thought. But in some instances, it can become a daunting task that, if not approached correctly, can leave us frustrated and over tired or maybe even so overwhelmed that the project does not get done at all. That is exactly how I felt when I recently took a good look at my garage and realized that it is in desperate need of some serious spring cleaning. So, the big question is, how do I tackle this?
First, come up with a schedule. Whatever you are dealing with did not develop overnight, so it will be unrealistic to think that it can be resolved this way. Breaking up the task into smaller subprojects makes monitoring progress easier while it makes the whole process more efficient.

Next, make sure to de-clutter. If you are anything like me, you will find plenty of stuff you have been hanging onto for way to long that you don’t really need. Studies show that a disorganized space adds to your stress level. It signals to your brain that work isn’t done.
The scientific implications of inhaling dust, combined with the stress of coming back to a cluttered workspace, can take a toll. Since we are all spending more time at home and in our home offices specifically, keeping a neat workspace is more important than ever. Look at things with a critical eye and objective group things into “keep”, “give away”, and “throw away” piles and proceed accordingly. Always work from top to bottom. As you move from the higher spots dust and other debris will unavoidably start falling. If you follow this pattern, you won’t find yourself having to clean the same spot multiple times. It also opens up space on the higher shelves to move other things from the lower ones, which in turn will make cleaning those a bit easier.

Always use non-toxic cleaning supplies. You want to start spring off on a clean note, so don’t expose yourself to chemicals and toxins. A steam cleaner is one of the best green products for spring cleaning. It can be used to clean your microwave, tile, hard floors, kitchen appliances, bathrooms and even outdoor areas. Since steam cleaners only use hot water vapor, they are a 100% natural and chemical-free cleaning solution. If you don’t have a steam cleaner, one of the best natural combinations for cleaning is white distilled vinegar, baking soda, and water. These ingredients are affordable, non-toxic, and have worked for ages when it comes to cleaning.

Also, remember to replace your HVAC filters. This is one of the most important and overlooked parts of spring cleaning. In fact, replacing a standard filter with a more robust one with a high MERV rating will help keep you healthier as you enter spring, as it will catch smaller, irritating particles. Air conditioner ducts build up dust during winter, and upgraded filters catch unwanted particles so they don’t enter your space. It’s an inexpensive way to make sure you’re breathing clean, healthy air.

And finally, don’t forget to do some inner spring cleaning on yourself as well. As time passes and things are left unchecked, internal clutter occurs and avoiding addressing them only allows for “dust build up” the same way it happens on your garage and home shelves. This will be a good time to make some much needed changes. Maybe on a physical aspect of yourself or maybe on the psychological and emotional end, or maybe both. Shift your diet and start a new exercise routine. Don’t forget that it is a lot easier to thrive and feel motivated to make progress on your dreams and goals when they are connected to a bigger purpose. There are a lot of different versions and interpretations of the concept of “finding your purpose”. A simple starting point is to look at what brings you joy and contentment in your daily life. As this will likely shift and become clearer over time, it can be helpful to visit this concept regularly throughout the year.
I wish you all a wonderful spring season and happy cleaning inside and out!

All the best,
Guillermo





Sign up now for the Tuesday, April 18, 2023 GMM, at the Tacoma Country & Golf Club.
Tina Olsson, DMD, MSD speaking on “"How Technology and New Materials are Changing Root Canal Treatment. This isn't your Momma's Root Canal Procedure!".”

Sponsored by ~ Columbia Healthcare Banking, Carestream Dental, & Olympic Collection, Inc.

Registration & Social 5:30 PM, Dinner 6:00 PM, Business & Speaker 6:15 -8:15 PM.
To reserve your spot & menu choice, email cindy@pcdentists.org
Stuffed Pork Chop, Herb Roasted Chicken, Quinoa Salad w/vegetables and beans (Veg)
Cost $46.00. 2 CE credits.