Science suggests that mind-wandering freely to more pleasant and playful thoughts may improve our mood and foster creativity. I’m a big believer in daydreaming now and then—especially when I’m out hiking. There’s something about being in nature that helps me let go of daily cares and allows my mind to wander where it will,[…]
Whether you feel hopeless about your ability to get out of debt or you feel hopeless about almost everything in life, it is an awful feeling. Feeling stuck in a place of hopelessness makes life really tough. Fortunately, there are some things you can do when you feel hopeless to make life a bit better—no[…]
A simple trick for feeling better and getting more done. You’ve heard that sitting too much just might kill you, mainly because the lack of movement translates into an increased risk of heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic conditions. To add insult to injury, it turns out that spending your day hunched over a computer[…]
Plants that boost your mood, keep dust away, and help you breathe easier? It’s true. See which ones offer the most physical and mental benefits. Allergy Relief Researchers found that rooms with plants have less dust and mold than rooms without any foliage. Leaves and other parts of the plants act as natural filters[…]
According to cognitive psychologist Robert J. Sternberg, creativity can be broadly defined as “the process of producing something that is both original and worthwhile.” Creativity is all about finding new ways of solving problems and approaching situations. This isn’t a skill restricted to artists, musicians or writers; it is a useful skill for people from[…]
Overcome these common barriers to lighten up your heart and mind. Happiness is our holy grail and our measure of a life well lived—not to mention the topic of countless books, TED Talks, and apps. But what exactly are we searching for? Scientists devoted to answering that question define happy people as those who[…]
You really do have some power to feel happier. Remember, you do really have some power to reach bliss: Genes determine 50 percent of your happiness, while circumstances account for 10 percent. That leaves 40 percent up to you, studies have shown. Here are nine tips to get you started: Focus on[…]
Shifting your tone doesn’t mean being phony; it’s about being grounded. Feeling a little sour? The Practice: Watch your tone. Why? Tone matters. I remember times I felt frazzled or aggravated and then said something with an edge to it that just wasn’t necessary or useful. Sometimes it was the words themselves, such as absolutes like[…]
Wake-Up Tips: How to Make the Morning Easier Start Small Good news for night owls, and anyone else who doesn’t bound out of bed when the sun comes up: You can learn to love your mornings. Even small changes to your routines can boost your mood and energy. Little tweaks can help you get[…]
Apartment Balcony Gardening Tips to Get Started Your own private sanctuary may be only a few feet from your couch. An urban balcony garden adds peace to any place, whether you’re in student housing or a luxury high-rise. Living in the heart of a bustling city provides excitement and energy, but the apartment living[…]