This time of year can be festive and fun, but it can also take a toll on mental health. The stresses of life can really take the joy out of what should be a time for family and friends, and gratefulness. Here are four tips that can help you feel calmer and less stressed.
1. Take a time out: When things are getting crazy and you feel like a ticking time bomb, take a step back and take some time for yourself. If you’re not sure what would bring you the most relaxation, here are a few ideas: drawing, journaling, taking a long, hot bath, or get carving out time for contemplation and reflection. Continue reading “4 Tips for Taking Time for Yourself”
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We added a four-legged puffball to our family last week and although it has been a lot of work, the joy she has brought us so has far outweighed the chewing and the accidents. In fact, in most cases having a pet brings not only joy and love, but also health benefits. From weight loss to smoking cessation, lower blood pressure to a more positive mental outlook, having pets in our lives offers many surprising health benefits.
Throughout history, societal norms have dictated the body beauty ideal for women – whether soft and rounded, model-skinny or strong and chiseled. This “ideal” is ever-changing and is both geographically and culturally driven. Many women have taken extreme and unhealthy steps to meet someone else’s idea of a perfect body. Bowing to societal pressure, women continue to restrict calories beyond what is healthy, undergo dangerous cosmetic procedures, wear uncomfortable undergarments and engage in excessive exercise all in the name of attaining that elusive perfect body. Young girls, unable to reach someone else’s ideal, are becoming stressed, 
School is out and for many that means a more relaxed sleep schedule. However, just because it’s summer doesn’t mean that you should let your kids stay up as late as they want. Recent research has found that consistent bedtimes result in better health for most people. And if you are like me, putting my kids to bed later does not result in a later wake-up time. Even reducing sleep by 1 hour per night can affect your child’s cognition and ability to pay attention. Sleep is a vital part of your child’s healthy growth and development. It’s even been shown to improve children’s peer acceptance, social skills and engagement, and emotional intuition. 
