How do you feel about yourself? What are your beliefs about human nature? Are human beings inherently selfish, only concerned about their self interest and maybe those closest to them? Is humanity like a cancer, slowly destroying life on this planet? Or is there something deeper to our nature: Our ability to love, have compassion, our deep desire to connect with others, our vulnerability? Is it possible that despite all of the cruelty and destructive behavior, underneath it all humanity is ba... Continue reading ...
You Can Always Make a Fresh Start
At this time of year there are a lot of articles about new year's resolutions and why they are so difficult to keep and/or how to be successful in fulfilling them. With this article, I would like to take a slightly different approach: Why do we make new year's resolutions in the first place? It seems that we make new year's resolutions because beginning a new year gives a feeling of making a fresh start. At the heart of new year's resolutions are often the intention to make the best out of ou... Continue reading ...
Managing the Holiday Stress
Although this season is portrayed as a season of joy, the holidays are often a stressful time for many people. This time of year for many people involves travel, huge shopping lists, waiting in line, being stuck in traffic, groceries, family visits, and above all pressure. Many people experience stress, depression, and anxiety during this time of year. Here are four tips that I hope will help you lighten your mood, and manage your stress:
- Remember to take care of yourself too. Because you are ...
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Gratitude and Happiness
It's Thanksgiving time, and this time of the year teachers all over the country ask their students: "What are you thankful for?" and they get the cutest and most hilarious answers. It may seem hokey, but reflecting on what you are grateful for in your life can actually increase your subjective experience of happiness and wellbeing in a meaningful way. Researchers have done experiments where they asked people to keep a gratitude journal. The assignment is simple: every day, write down three th... Continue reading ...