Just as your body needs physical stimulation to stay fit, your mind requires engagement to maintain edge. Activate your neural center with fun activities that flex your brain. Tax your cerebral connections. Try Bingo....
Everyday life can wear down anyone; sometimes it seems you’re facing an insurmountable series of burdens. And when stress swirls, it’s easy to lose perspective. If negativity begins to overwhelm you, try this: Pause,...
Lying is more than just an ethical misstep. Deceit gobbles up energy while inducing emotional and mental stress. And while you might think fudging the truth is sometimes necessary, guilt can creep in, ruffling...
About 1 in 4 American adults suffers from high blood pressure (hypertension). While the causes behind 95% of these cases are unknown, it’s certain the condition can wreak havoc. Hypertension is a leading cause...
While a caffeine jolt can resuscitate your sluggish battery, it’s not always a good call. The stimulant may cause jitters and may subject you to withdrawal symptoms when you go without. So before you...
Unresolved job stress can lead to poor health and increase the risk of tobacco and alcohol use, obesity, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. Job conditions that can lead to stress include excessive workloads,...
Stress over finding or keeping a job can lead to depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and compulsive behaviors such as overeating, gambling, and overspending, according to US Department of Health and Human Services, which also...
Got a lot on your mind? Jumping from one thought to another? Going in circles instead of making progress? Concentration issues affect everyone — a wandering mind can be caused by multitasking, boredom, distractions,...
Everyone indulges now and then in personal pity parties, but they won’t fix your problems. And a negative outlook can spell trouble for your overall health. Studies find that pessimistic thoughts and feelings directly...
Today is an opportunity to stop putting off until tomorrow what you can do today. Fortunately, you don’t have to make giant changes overnight — simple steps can jumpstart a healthier lifestyle in seconds....
Homes steeped in stuff and disorganization have many rubbing their temples. The stress can wear you down, affecting not only your health but your productivity. Take small steps to put your life in order...
Forgiving is not necessarily forgetting, but you can show compassion for those who caused you pain. By burying the hatchet, you can improve your health, boost self–esteem, and lessen depression as well as anxiety,...
Pushing yourself too hard for too long can lead to difficulty sleeping, appetite changes, fatigue, and frazzled nerves as well as strained relationships. If you take work home, work through lunch, or skip vacations,...
Most would agree with the lyrics to The Rolling Stones’s I Can’t Get No Satisfaction — disappointment can be difficult. It can affect your personal and professional life — whether it’s a vacation ruined...
Some health professionals turn to art for its psychological and physical benefits — dealing with depression, loss of a loved one, or illness. There are dozens of art and healing organizations that promote its...
Traveling is more aggravating than ever — security checks, visa requirements, and baggage fees. But a good vacation is definitely worth the hassle. Studies show that globetrotters are healthier because they have lower stress...
In the spirit of our astronauts’ great feats, take a small step toward setting goals — and a giant leap in improving your fitness, finances, social life, and family life. The fortitude required to...
Good friends are great to have — for your mental well–being as well as your physical health. According to a New York Times article, strong friendships help fight illness and depression, speed recovery, slow...
IF YOU FREQUENTLY lose your keys and forget where you parked your car, you may fear something more than just a “senior moment.” That’s unlikely. But memory lapses are a good reminder that brain...
Most of us merge into the fast lane during much of the day, scattering our quality time over text messages and brief kisses on the cheek as we jump out of the car. You...
Tidying up removes physical as well as mental, emotional, and spiritual litter. With a place for everything and everything in its place, you can focus energy on hobbies, exercise, and rest — vital feathers...
MENTAL HEALTH AMERICA has been observing May as Mental Health Month since 1949. Their platform for 2012 is a call to action to recognize and care for mental illness. “Do More for 1 in...
You’ve heard about mind over matter — but what really matters when it comes to the mind? The brain learns and grows by interacting with its surrounding environment. With a mental workout, you can...
Helping to make the planet a healthier, safer place to live can be overwhelming — it’s hard to know where to begin. You can start with simple steps to contribute to a better and...
Planning a gathering can be stressful, leaving you with little time to enjoy the party. Create the perfect evening for both you and your visitors with these simple tips: Tastes do matter: When you...
Teenage angst, mid–life crisis — at some point, we all wonder why we’re here and what unique, lasting contributions we can make. The question can be uncomfortable, so we often ignore it — or...
Your mind and body need regular care — and so does your spirit. Putting your beliefs into action creates a sense of wholeness… of living an authentic life. Find what feels true for you...
Studies find that “lucky” people are actually just more optimistic than their doom–and–gloom counterparts. Individuals who believe in their abilities are more apt to work them to their advantage — whether it’s in achieving...
Children’s author Theodor Geisel, known better as Dr. Seuss, made his stories and messages memorable with his rhyming. Maybe it’s time to put some rhyme into your own story. Are you alone in a...
With work, family, and other obligations, time for you can be hard to come by. Yet, research shows that those who set aside a relaxation period each day are happier and more productive. Try...