This story made its way around the Web a few years ago. I saw it just recently. Some reviewers quibble about the physics or other merits of the story. I think, however, that it makes a good point. While overcoming struggles can make us stronger, rumination and dwelling on problems is bad for our mental health (see this BBC article that summarizes the results of a large study published in the journal PLOS One in 2013).
Read MoreWith travel advisories and school closings, this week’s cold weather is the worst of the season so far. If you need to venture out, remember to keep your skin covered and dress in layers. The recommendations I’ve seen for these layers are: clothing next to your skin that ideally would be a wicking fabric, then an insulating layer like polar fleece or a wool sweater, and finally an outer layer. This would be your coat or jacket and rain or snow pants for your legs. Don’t forget your feet – wool socks and tall boots are my choice.
Read MoreWhether you travel often or only occasionally, you may have noticed that spending a long time in a car or plane can result in aches and pains. Even if you recently received bodywork, extended periods of sitting can undo some of its benefits.
Read MoreToday, I had a conversation with another graduate of the Guild for Structural Integration. One topic was how do we (or any hands-on practitioner, for that matter) know what layer in the tissue needs to be worked on? In the framework of the 10-series, the first 3 hours are “sleeve” sessions – meaning, they address the more superficial structures. The next 4 hours are “core” sessions, moving toward deeper work. The last 3 hours integrate the work.
Read MoreIn a recent article, Gretchen Reynolds of the New York Times summarized some important research. A new study confirms that children think better if they move more. The trend for many schools to reduce the time allowed for recess or cut PT is counterproductive. Play that includes running, chasing and jumping improved children’s ability to think.
Read MoreI think that I have noted previously in this blog that walking is one of the best activities for our body’s structure. Researchers continue to study the body in motion. Recently, scientists at Ohio State have learned how our feet respond to shifts in the pelvis when we walk.
Read MoreIf you find yourself feeling less than upbeat, thinking of something else can help move you to a better mental or emotional spot. However, at least for me – without a specific focus area, it can be difficult to stop ruminating on whatever is bothering you.
Read MoreCooler weather has me thinking about heartier meals. This recipe is in the St Paul Farmers Market Produce Cookbook (1999) – one of my favorite produce cookbooks. It was a lucky find at a garage sale.
Read MoreA recent visit with an elderly relative led me to think about how the choices we make in our younger years play out when we’re older. In this case, a lack of exercise and general activity resulted in a need for physical therapy and a walker this summer. Eating poorly contributed to a loss of strength and some mental confusion. Although my relative really wanted to stay in her home, she couldn’t. Her house was not suitable for aging in place. Also, her small town did not have the level of visiting care services that she needed.
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