Spending time in nature significantly boosts health, affecting physical and mental well-being for children and adults alike. We can feel this innately anytime we're able to get outside for a half-hour walk, to take in a sunrise, or sit under the stars. But we also have the studies to back it up. Getting outside is good for us, on so many levels. Nature exposure lowers stress, blood … [Read more...] about Nature Boosts Health: Benefits of Getting Outside
mindfulness
Beyond Sudoku: What Keeps Your Brain Healthy Over Time
Sudoku and crossword puzzles often are touted as beneficial to cognitive health. And these games and others can provide mental engagement and enjoyment, as well as build mastery and competence. But they are not a standalone solution to better brain health. Puzzles are, well, just one part of the brain health puzzle. Brain training, in which the games and puzzles increase in … [Read more...] about Beyond Sudoku: What Keeps Your Brain Healthy Over Time
25 Non-Food Rewards to Celebrate Your Healthier Habits
Many of us associate food with comfort, security, and celebration. Think of some good memories you've had around a dinner table. Who was there? And what was served? Bring to mind the feelings you have about the occasion. Sweet memories, yes. But when we tie all those good feelings to the food itself, it can be easy to turn to food and overdo it when times are tough and we want those good … [Read more...] about 25 Non-Food Rewards to Celebrate Your Healthier Habits
Mind-Body Practices to Complete the Stress Cycle
Mind-body practices strengthen our parasympathetic nervous system, which tells us to relax after a threat is past. And when this system operates effectively, we complete the stress cycle. We relax. But what happens when chronic or severe stress prevents that "rest and digest" system from kicking in? Over time, it can harm our health. Research indicates that our thought … [Read more...] about Mind-Body Practices to Complete the Stress Cycle
Chronic Stress: Recognizing and Mitigating It
If you're more tired than usual, find yourself overly irritable, and/or can't seem to concentrate, you may be suffering from low-level chronic stress. Chronic stress differs from acute stress, which comes from a sudden event such as the death of someone close or the loss of a job or relationship. But acute stress can lead to chronic stress. With COVID-19, we may encounter acute … [Read more...] about Chronic Stress: Recognizing and Mitigating It
COVID-19: It’s Time for Self Care for All
Even before COVID-19, I was a big advocate for self care. In my work as an integrative health coach, I encourage women especially (though hello guys, I see you and work with you too!) to take care of themselves, so they can continue to care for who and what’s most important to them. And now, from all angles, we’re all being asked to do just that worldwide. We must care well for … [Read more...] about COVID-19: It’s Time for Self Care for All