With today’s news of rising prices, war, violence, illness, and more, worry seems to be at the top of the list. How do we manage it and even wipe it out? What to do when worry consumes you? Step One. Determine the source. Read more…
Having Trouble Relaxing?
If you are like me, every time I decide to do something just for me, I have a flash of all the things that I should be doing instead. Since my to-do list is quite long, I have to fight the urge to postpone that relaxing walk or leisure reading to get something done on my list. After all, I’ve seen the research on the importance of self-control and self-regulation in obtaining long-term goals. Yet, recent research shines a light on the importance of fun and relaxation, too. Let’s take a look…
Ironing: A Mindfulness Practice?
I’m no domestic goddess. Because of that, there’s usually a long list of things I would rather not do around the house. But recently, I’ve noticed that I have a newfound urge to clean and organize. Perhaps it is a welcome break from everything that is going on. Or, maybe it is the appeal of getting something completely done and the satisfaction that comes with that. But I think the primary reason is that I have incorporated these routine tasks into my daily mindfulness practice.
Fighting Fear and Finding Hope
Today, one of the predominate emotions we are experiencing is fear. And rightfully so. Yet, our fear often leads to anxiety and depression which has the effect of freezing us in place. It can also drain us of energy and can destroy motivation to take action. So, what steps can we take to manage our fear?
I'll Do It Later
On/Off Thinking
Just a few short weeks ago, we were asked to stay at home and not go out unless we absolutely had to. Decisions were made for us about what we could or could not do. We may not have liked it, but our decisions were easy. That’s because we understand “on/off” thinking or “dichotomous thinking”. But, what is it really and how does this type of thinking hold us back when it comes to positive behavior changes?
It Matters How We See the Future
I don’t know about you, but maintaining my usual level of optimism is becoming increasingly difficult. The daily news cycle alone is often enough to send me down a path of negativity that leaves me seeing the world in shades of grey. And with the reality of what’s going on, it is totally understandable and can be expected. However, even with this new reality, losing our positive expectations about the future can have serious consequences.
Journal Like an Astronaut
The other day I heard an interview with Scott Kelly. Scott is a former NASA astronaut who is best known for spending almost a year on the International Space Station. Now, that’s social isolation. A reporter asked him, “How did you handle being alone all that time?”. He said that he journaled every day. Let’s dig in to the research behind this powerful practice…
Be Your Own Best Friend
If you are like most people, you may be having moments right now where you need a little boost. You might be feeling a little down and are not sure if you can handle all of the change. Sometimes all we need is someone to remind us that “we’ve got this”. When there isn’t someone there to do this for you, why not consider being your own best friend and cheerleader? Let’s learn how…
Planning or Worrying: What's the Difference?
Many of us are finding that worrying about the future is taking over our lives. And for good reason, we have a lot to worry about these days. However, not all worry is negative and damaging. Psychologists who study the concept of worry think about it in two categories: maladaptive and adaptive. Let’s learn about the difference between the two…