K-State Extension-Gray County

09/04/2026

Gray County Extension will be closed Monday the 7th.

08/31/2026

Healthier eating is a lifestyle choice, says K-State extension agent

The growing popularity of the Mediterranean style of eating is not about about getting rid of foods; K-State Extension agent Chelsea King says it's about making small changes to eat more nutritious foods

https://extension.k-state.edu/news-and-publications/news/stories/2026/08/health-mediterranean-diet.html

08/28/2026

Okay, who’s getting decorated up for fall?!! I couldn’t wait any longer. If you come to the office there is no denying I am ready for fall, now if the weather would just play along!! We hope to see more of you around town, homes and business getting decorated! In town, out of town and remember it’s county wide! A small change in how things will be judged. Please read the flyer!

08/26/2026

Sharon's Squirrel Musings!

She might be a little nuts, but humor and laughter promote mental, physical, and social well-being...so let's have a little laugh!

Why couldn't the bicycle stand up by itself???????? (See the answer in the first comment.)

On a serious note, stress is a normal part of life. Sometimes we experience positive stress, but most of the time we focus on negative stress. Stress can be harmful to one's health, so it's important for all of us to take care of ourselves. Ways we can manage stress are to Practice Mindfulness, Manage Stress Positively, and Take Intentional Breaks from Screens.

To practice mindfulness, set aside 10 to 15 minutes daily to focus on your breath, notice physical sensations, and gently return your wandering mind to the present moment without judgment. Breathing focus: Sit straight, close your eyes, and notice the air move in and out of your nose or chest. Body scan: Lie down or sit, then slowly move your attention from your head down to your toes to notice tension or warmth. Mindful walking: Walk slowly, paying close attention to the physical feeling of each step and your balance.Senses grounding (5-4-3-2-1): Name five things you see, four you can touch, three you hear, two you smell, and one you taste. Single-tasking: Do one task at a time instead of multitasking. Mindful eating: Notice the texture, temperature, and taste of every bite of food. Be kind to yourself: When your mind gets distracted by thoughts, calmly accept it and refocus on the present. https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/meditation/in-depth/mindfulness-exercises/art-20046356

Managing stress positively involves healthy daily habits like regular physical exercise, mindfulness or deep breathing, balanced nutrition, and strong social connections. These evidence-based practices lower cortisol, boost endorphins, and help you regain a sense of calm and control. Physical and Lifestyle Habits--Get moving: Go for a brisk walk, run, or bike ride to burn off nervous energy and release feel-good endorphins. Protect your sleep: Keep a steady bedtime routine and aim for 7 to 9 hours of rest each night. Eat well: Fuel your body with nutritious whole foods and limit excess caffeine or sugar.
Mental and Emotional Tools--Practice deep breathing: Use slow, focused breaths (like box breathing) to signal your nervous system to calm down. Set clear boundaries: Learn to say no to extra tasks when your plate is already full. Stay connected: Talk with supportive friends or family members to share what you feel.

Short Eye and Focus Breaks---20-20-20 Rule: Look 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes to relax eye muscles. Blink intentionally: Force yourself to blink a few times during your mini-break to moisten your eyes. Set a timer: Use a gentle alarm or a digital wellness tool to remind you when to look away.
Long System Recovery Breaks--Move every hour: Stand up, walk around, or stretch your arms and legs for 5 to 10 minutes. Put the phone away: Keep your phone out of reach during breaks so you do not accidentally replace work scrolling with social media scrolling. Hydrate or step outside: Grab a glass of water, get some fresh air, or gaze out a window. https://www.cmich.edu/blog/university-libraries/2025/12/02/give-yourself-a-break!-how-to-balance-screen-time-with-real-life-stress-busters

08/24/2026

K-State aging expert shares tips for preventing falls

More than 1 in 4 older Kansans will experience a fall in any given year, Martinez says

Many falls can be prevented. K-State Extension aging specialist Erin Martinez shares tips for making areas in and around the home safer for older adults.

For more safety information, please check out this link: https://extension.k-state.edu/news-and-publications/news/stories/2026/08/aging-fall-prevention-month.html

08/22/2026

Come join the fun with K-State Extension and the Gray County Recreation & Wellness Center as we host our annual Autumn Decor Contest.

We heard concerns last year and we want you to know that we listened!! We have made changes to our contest in hopes to make the contest more fun for everyone!! Let's see your fun and creative autumn decor and excitement shine through!

Decor Contests benefit mental health by providing a creative outlet that reduces stress and anxiety, builds a sense of accomplishment, and can evoke positive memories and feelings of control in a chaotic world.

08/22/2026

08/21/2026

Come check out the new story walk at Cimarron Crossing Park. Tonight is Cimarron Celebration from 5-9pm.

08/21/2026

K-State horticulture expert says salad crops favor slightly cooler soils

At a glance: Radishes, spinach, turnips, mustard, lettuce and other leafy greens can be planted from mid-August to early September, says K-State horticulture expert Matt McKernan.

https://extension.k-state.edu/news-and-publications/news/stories/2026/08/horticulture-growing-fall-salad-garden.html

08/20/2026

Summit empowers Kansas food entrepreneurs' business growth

K-State Extension connects aspiring business owners to local experts and resources

https://www.k-state.edu/news/articles/2026/08/extension-food-business-startup-summit-provides-collaboration-networking-support.html