A bibliophile’s guide to creating — and sustaining — a great reading group. Early in the coronavirus pandemic, Jane Meronuck and the puzzle lovers in her extended family started solving the New York Times Sunday crossword over Zoom. After George Floyd was killed by a police officer across the river from her St. Paul home in May[…]
There are many great stress relievers out there, but it’s not always easy to stick with them. However, fun stress relievers do seem to be easier to practice on a regular basis—you look forward to them. So for those of us who like a little fun with our stress management, we’ve compiled a list of[…]
Our brains reward us for seeking out what we already know. So why should we reach to listen to something we don’t? Listening to new music is hard. Not hard compared to going to space or war, but hard compared to listening to music we already know. I assume most Americans—especially those who have settled[…]
“The human race has only one effective weapon, and that is laughter.” -Mark Twain If you want to impress somebody, make them laugh. If you want to connect with someone new, make them laugh. If you want to get a raise from your boss, make him laugh. If you want to take yourself out of[…]
What are the benefits of growing your own vegetables? Vegetables are so easy to grow especially in sunny spots. And you don’t need a large yard to build a vegetable garden. Even the tiniest slice of space can be transformed into a lush, thriving garden. If you love the idea of growing your own[…]
The need to draw may be hardwired into the human brain. When I worked for the Panama Canal Commission–the US agency that ran the Panama Canal before it was transferred back to Panama in the year 2000–I would often glance over at the general counsel’s legal pad and notice that the margins were filled[…]
Trying to figure out what to do during your days off or your evenings could be some tough stuff. It can feel a little cheesy trying to find a hobby as an adult, especially when one doesn’t include drinking or happy hours. When you don’t know what to choose, all the options seem kind of[…]
Things to do offline. Remember your brain … before the internet? Become obsessed with a paint-by-numbers masterpiece. They’re usually only $10-$15 per kit, providing hours, nay, DAYS of obsessive entertainment. Paint all your cheap-o jewelry with clear nail polish. It’ll keep your faux gold and silver patinas from wearing off too soon. Send your long-distance friends surprise[…]
Hobbies: Stress Relief, Wellness Promotion and Just Plain Fun! Hobbies are often thought of as activities for people who lead quiet, relaxed lives. However, people with full, busy, even stressful lives may need hobbies more than the average person, and benefit greatly from having hobbies in their lives. Hobbies bring many benefits that usually[…]