Why is it so difficult to form healthy habits or overcome bad habits? In many cases, we have good intentions, and we know what we need to do. Yet it’s so difficult to translate those good intentions into action. Read on to learn how you can bridge the gap between good intentions and healthy behaviours. A few weeks ago, I saw a presentation by Monica … Continue reading The Keys to Forming Healthy Habits
There’s something comforting about the warmth of a cup of tea cradled in the palms of your hands. As you bring it closer, the smell rises to your nostrils, filling you with a sense of familiarity. The simple act of breathing, air flowing in and out of your lungs, is a rhythm we often overlook. These sensations, subtle yet powerful, are the foundation of our … Continue reading Reconnection with Yourself: The Power of Sensations
On Wednesday, I attended the first session of an 8-week Brain Booster Challenge hosted by Booming Encore. This free webinar series is a journey into the world of brain science and successful aging. The speaker for the series is Dr. Gillian Leithman, Assistant Professor at Montreal’s Concordia University and founder of Rewire to Retire. Despite what many people believe, Dr. Leithman made it clear that … Continue reading Five Surprising Facts About Your Brain Health
When I recently brought a new iPhone, the rep offered me some deal so that if a new phone came out in something like 90 days after my purchase, I could upgrade to the new phone for free. I laughed because I certainly don’t need to do that. But it reminded me of the standard adoption curve I learned years ago getting my Electrical Engineering … Continue reading Why You Should Feel Smug About Your Learning Curve
Today, technology has undeniably become a crucial part of our daily lives. From AI-powered tools to automation, technology promises to save us time by making tasks faster and more efficient. But here’s the paradox—what are we doing with this time we gain? Instead of investing it into personal growth or relaxation, we often work more, blurring the lines between productivity and well-being. So, why aren’t … Continue reading Technology Saves Us Time, But Are We Really Benefiting?
In recent years, the link between our diet choices and their impact on both human health and the planet has become increasingly clear. Choosing a plant-based diet—a way of eating that emphasizes vegetables, fruits, grains, and legumes while reducing meat consumption—offers profound benefits that extend beyond personal well-being. It’s not about adopting a label like “vegan” but rather about making conscious choices that contribute to … Continue reading Plant-Based Diets: the Connection Between Human Health and Planetary Health
Rest. The word brings me images of lazily lounging on a couch or drifting into a peaceful slumber. Yet, true rest transcends mere inactivity. It’s an art form, a practice rooted in psychology and enriched by intentional actions. It was a rainy Sunday (very typical in Brussels) when I found out what it meant to rest while reading David Newman and other psychologists’ article: “Leisure … Continue reading The Art of Rest
Dancing is beautiful and is waiting for us! Imagine stepping onto the dance floor, feeling the music pulse through your body, and being carried away by the beat. Yes, dancing isn’t just about moving your body—it’s a powerful practice that nurtures our physical and mental well-being in ways we might not even realize. Why Dance? Dancing is more than just a recreational activity—it’s a holistic … Continue reading Dancing: A Joyful Path to Physical and Mental Well-being
In this blog post, I highlight the critical connection between physical activity and brain health, explaining the benefits and encouraging you to incorporate regular exercise into your lives. Physical activity is well-known for its benefits to health and well-being, but did you know it’s also crucial for our brain? Neuroscience reveals that movement is so deeply embedded in our DNA that it’s necessary for the … Continue reading The Brain Benefits of Physical Activity: A Neuroscientific Perspective
Exposure to violent social media, whether through work or private life, can have significant impacts on mental health. This type of content includes images or videos from terror incidents, war, and disturbing material found on pornographic sites. Here’s an exploration of the risks, impacts, and strategies to mitigate the negative effects on mental health. Risks and Impact on Mental Health Strategies for Mitigating Impact Before … Continue reading Managing the Impact of Violent Media on Mental Health
As I was thinking about my dad this Father’s Day weekend, I recalled something he often said when I was growing up. “Kindness costs nothing.” It’s a simple phrase—yet a phrase that makes you wonder why kindness appears to be such a rare commodity these days. One of the nicest compliments I’ve received in the weeks leading up to my retirement is “Michelle is one … Continue reading Sprinkling a Little Kindness Into Our World
Kindness, connection with nature, and a positive mindset are more than just feel-good concepts; they are scientifically linked to significant improvements in our physical and mental health. Let’s delve into how these factors can transform our lives. The Health Benefits of Kindness Kindness, often seen as a moral virtue, has tangible health benefits. Research indicates that acts of kindness can lead to clinically significant improvements … Continue reading Embracing a Holistic Approach to Health
Your health. There’s nothing more important, but health misinformation is everywhere these days. Do you know how to protect yourself? In a 2022 poll, close to three-quarters of American adults reported they had been exposed to inaccurate medical and health information. That’s a shocking statistic, but not surprising in the world we live in. The poll is two years old, but I suspect if it … Continue reading Protect Yourself Against Health Misinformation
We often think about the future like it’s a far-away land we haven’t reached yet, right? Think again! The future isn’t just some distant dreamland; it’s being cooked up right here, right now, in the present moment. Yep, you heard that correctly! It’s all about what we’re thinking, feeling, and how we take on the big wide world around us and respond to it right … Continue reading Curiosity killed the cat
Unpopular Opinion: I’m not really into journaling. But I think it’s happening anyway. Continue reading Am I Journaling? Why?
On Friday, I went for a reflexology treatment for the first time. I first learned about this natural healing art when a friend and colleague certified as a Reflexologist and opened her own practice after she retired from her primary career. If you’ve never tried reflexology, read on to learn about its origins, health benefits, and what to expect at a visit to a reflexologist. … Continue reading The Healing Benefits of Reflexology
In our fast-paced world, taking the time to unplug and recharge is not only good for our mental health, it can also improve our productivity and focus. Read on for signs that it might be time to take a break, and for some ideas on ways to get away from it all…even if only for a few minutes. Over the last couple of weeks, I’ve … Continue reading Signs It’s Time to Unplug and Recharge
In the heart of Scandinavia, nestled among the fjords and forests, lies a cultural tradition that embodies warmth, camaraderie, and relaxation: fika. Originating from Sweden, fika is more than just a coffee break; it’s a cherished ritual that celebrates the simple joys of life and fosters meaningful connections with others. Fika, much like its Danish and Norwegian counterpart hygge, is deeply rooted in the concept … Continue reading Fika: the Swedish Tradition of Togetherness and Relaxation
The 2024 World Happiness Report results are in. Once again, the tiny nordic countries of Finland, Denmark, Iceland, Sweden and Norway all rank in the top 10. These countries are clearly doing something right. What’s their secret? And what can we learn from the nordic countries about happiness? It’s fascinating to me to see these small countries top the World Happiness Report rankings year after … Continue reading What Can We Learn From Nordic Countries About Happiness?
Welcome to the first post of the short series exploring the captivating concepts of serenity and well-being from Scandinavian countries. In this series of two, we delve into two distinct yet equally intriguing concepts: hygge from Denmark and Norway, and fika from Sweden. Each concept embodies the essence of mindfulness, relaxation, and connection in its unique way. Last week I delved into the Dutch concept … Continue reading Exploring Scandinavian Serenity: Hygge, and Fika
