During the holiday season, we look forward to spending time with our loved ones. But for individuals with allergies, sharing a meal can come with serious risk. With store-bought desserts, shared serving spoons, cross contamination, and homemade dishes, it’s easy for allergens to slip through the cracks unnoticed. Take, for example, what happened to Aunt […]

Break the Ice

What’s the scariest thing about going to the supermarket, gym, or holiday party at the office? For many, it can be the potential for random human interaction. Though we’re social creatures by nature, the idea of talking to a stranger can feel surprisingly daunting.  As it turns out, connecting with people is not just about […]

What to Say When You Don’t Know What to Say

When a friend or family member is struggling with something deeply painful, it can feel overwhelming—for them and for you. Sometimes we don’t want to say the “wrong thing,” so we say nothing at all. Much of human pain and suffering is because we feel lonely and isolated during difficult situations. Instead of staying quiet, consider […]

8 Habits of Happy Families

Happiness can vary depending on our personal circumstances. But why are some families more resilient and happier despite the obstacles life throws their way?  Happy families often have certain traits in common, and you can adapt their habits to create a happier home of your own. Here are eight things they do:   1. Eat together Multiple […]

Spring-Clean Your Mind

There’s something invigorating about the birds chirping, the plants growing, and days lengthening. Springtime is almost like a new year with abundant fresh starts. For many, the season heralds a tradition that dates back thousands of years to the Persians and Israelites: spring-cleaning. Whether deep cleaning carpets, donating unused clothing and household items, or edging […]

Tame the Holiday Circus

Are holiday traditions, parties, volunteer commitments, and shopping turning you into the frenzied ringmaster of a runaway circus train? For your sanity and health, put the brakes on the holiday rush. Here’s how. 1. Cancel some of the sideshows.  Leave a few activities off the program this year. Ellie Griffin, a vitality coach, says this is […]