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by author Galina Pembroke
Does success bring us happiness or is it the other way around? In this chicken or egg debate, we often hear that success hatches happiness. Not according to the November 2005 issue of Psychological Bulletin.
Sonja Lyubomirsky and colleagues at the University of California reviewed 225 studies with a collective 275,000 participants. To ensure their analysis was comprehensive and fair, the researchers examined three types of studies: cross-sectional (at a single period in time), longitudinal (over a longer period of time), and lab-based, experimental research. Happiness was described as frequent positive moods and emotions, and success was defined as meeting goals in love, work, and health. The results are something to smile about.
C’mon, Get Happy
The research revealed that happy people are more successful in marriage and work and enjoy better mental and physical health. People who report feeling satisfied before they get a job are more likely to get interviews. Happily, once they got the job, their performance was rated higher than the performances of their gloomy peers.
Cheerful people are more likely to graduate from college and to attain supervisory positions. This isn’t magic–Lyubomirsky and colleagues explain that happy workers are less likely to show burnout, display absenteeism, and engage in retaliatory actions.
Happy people are also more likely to get married, stay married longer, and, if they do divorce, to remarry. Happiness seems to attract a partner and maintain the relationship. One study profiled a group of Australians over a period of 15 years: The higher their levels of self-reported happiness, the more likely they were to be married during this time span. Characteristics of happy people–smiles and laughter–make them appear more friendly and approachable. When a happy person’s mood rubs off on us, it’s more likely we’ll work to stay with them, the research found.
Get Healthy, Too
Happiness also invites health. Lab-based research found that inducing positive moods boosted the immune system. Laughter, which is a companion to contentment, has direct effects on health. A 2001 study in Australian Family Physician found that laughter has a role in stress hormone reduction, mood improvement, creativity enhancement, pain reduction, immunity boosting, and blood pressure reduction.
While happiness can’t stop illness, Lyubomirsky and peers conclude that a good mood can bolster a fighting spirit, giving those with serious conditions a stronger resolve to follow a treatment regimen and increase their efforts to overcome illness.
It’s hard to accept happiness if we don’t like ourselves. Self-esteem is crucial to happiness. In fact, self-esteem is so essential to an inner “good life” that it outranks income or age. Next time you’re tempted to dismiss your achievements, remember this–and smile.
Galina Pembroke is a happy freelance writer based in Nanaimo, BC.
Source: alive #288, October 2006
Launch Into January
Many people have mixed emotions about returning to a regular schedule after the holidays. It's common to feel a little down as January's cold weather and lack of sunlight, in addition to the change of routine, can make it hard to get motivated.
Many people have mixed emotions about returning to a regular schedule after the holidays. It's common to feel a little down as January's cold weather and lack of sunlight, in addition to the change of routine, can make it hard to get motivated.
You've Got the Power
For most of us, the obstacles that we struggle to overcome in our lives are very private. We often don't even let our hardships register on our faces as we go about our daily work routines. Most likely they don't get splashed across newspaper headlines or television screens, either.
For most of us, the obstacles that we struggle to overcome in our lives are very private. We often don't even let our hardships register on our faces as we go about our daily work routines. Most likely they don't get splashed across newspaper headlines or television screens, either.
Laughter: A Priceless Prescription
When Norman Cousins was editor of the Saturday Review, he became seriously ill with a brain tumou.
When Norman Cousins was editor of the Saturday Review, he became seriously ill with a brain tumou.
Celebrate Life
"Life is a great adventure, or it is nothing."--Helen Keller "One of the wonderful things about being alive is that it is never too late.
"Life is a great adventure, or it is nothing."--Helen Keller "One of the wonderful things about being alive is that it is never too late.
Mirror, Mirror on the Wall...
Can you stand in front of the mirror and really look at yourself? What about with no clothes on? Do you like and accept what you see? Or do you wince and remind yourself t.
Can you stand in front of the mirror and really look at yourself? What about with no clothes on? Do you like and accept what you see? Or do you wince and remind yourself t.
Focus Forward
Though sixty-one percent of adults make New Year's resolutions, very few-between five and 15 percent-actually see them through to completion. Why do so few of us actually stick to our resolutions?
Though sixty-one percent of adults make New Year's resolutions, very few-between five and 15 percent-actually see them through to completion. Why do so few of us actually stick to our resolutions?
Mind Over Cancer
Examining the biology of beliefNot a day goes by thatthe word "cancer" doesn't scare thousands of Canadians. Like a dreaded scourge, it hovers over us, presumably just waiting to claim its next victim.
Examining the biology of beliefNot a day goes by thatthe word "cancer" doesn't scare thousands of Canadians. Like a dreaded scourge, it hovers over us, presumably just waiting to claim its next victim.
Not in the Mood?
Something holds us back from exercising. The problem is not usually a lack of desire, but often the way we approach physical activity.
Something holds us back from exercising. The problem is not usually a lack of desire, but often the way we approach physical activity.
Creating Safe Places to Deal With Pain
Motivational speakers use anecdotes and humour to inspire people to reach their potential. Motivational teachers help people understand why they do what they do, often drawing to the surface hidden beliefs and painful feelings.
Motivational speakers use anecdotes and humour to inspire people to reach their potential. Motivational teachers help people understand why they do what they do, often drawing to the surface hidden beliefs and painful feelings.
September Brings Opportunity for Change
As balmy breezes become crisp winds and the green leaves change colour with autumn, September brings a positively charged current of change. The longer, lazier days of summer are ending as structure and routine take over. Students settle into a busy new year. It's harvest time.
As balmy breezes become crisp winds and the green leaves change colour with autumn, September brings a positively charged current of change. The longer, lazier days of summer are ending as structure and routine take over. Students settle into a busy new year. It's harvest time.
The Power Within Illness
The culture we live in most often views illness as a "bad thing. This is no more than an opinion-an opinion that, unfortunately, often leads to a self-fulfilling outcome.
The culture we live in most often views illness as a "bad thing. This is no more than an opinion-an opinion that, unfortunately, often leads to a self-fulfilling outcome.
Pessimist or Optimist-Live Long Enough to Find Out
Is your glass half empty or half full? Research suggests that if you are an optimist and judge the glass half full, then you are more likely to live a longer, happier, and more satisfying life.
Is your glass half empty or half full? Research suggests that if you are an optimist and judge the glass half full, then you are more likely to live a longer, happier, and more satisfying life.
Joy and Happiness: The Same or Very Different Emotions?
Happiness, according to the Oxford English dictionary, is based on luck or good fortune. Joy on the other hand, is described as a vivid emotion of pleasure. Thus, happiness depends on circumstance; joy, on our emotional well-being.
Happiness, according to the Oxford English dictionary, is based on luck or good fortune. Joy on the other hand, is described as a vivid emotion of pleasure. Thus, happiness depends on circumstance; joy, on our emotional well-being.
New Year's Determinations
The children's nursery rhyme goes, "Wish I may, wish I might, get the wish, I wish tonight. As adults we may smile at such a simplistic understanding of life. Yet every year, thousands of adults make wishes disguised as a New Year's resolutions..
The children's nursery rhyme goes, "Wish I may, wish I might, get the wish, I wish tonight. As adults we may smile at such a simplistic understanding of life. Yet every year, thousands of adults make wishes disguised as a New Year's resolutions..
Health Really Is a Laughing Matter
No matter what you're planning for the year ahead, if health is a priority, then laughing should be one as well. A good guffaw, or even a goofy giggle, is not only your best medicine, but a free, easy, and powerful way to prevent disease, relieve stress, and increase emotional health.
No matter what you're planning for the year ahead, if health is a priority, then laughing should be one as well. A good guffaw, or even a goofy giggle, is not only your best medicine, but a free, easy, and powerful way to prevent disease, relieve stress, and increase emotional health.
Head Colds
A friend of mine told me recently that her boyfriend had come down with a col.
A friend of mine told me recently that her boyfriend had come down with a col.
Stories We Live By
For many people, the word "trauma" triggers images of terrible events afflicting the innocent: abuse, the death of loved ones, war, or natural disasters. The consequences of trauma on emotional health are well known and include mild to severe depression, anxiety, and panic attacks to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
For many people, the word "trauma" triggers images of terrible events afflicting the innocent: abuse, the death of loved ones, war, or natural disasters. The consequences of trauma on emotional health are well known and include mild to severe depression, anxiety, and panic attacks to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
A Healthy Dose of Vanity
It wasn't skyrocketing blood pressure or the warning from his doctor to lose seventy pounds before his heart gave out that pushed David out of the fast-food line and onto the treadmill. Instead, it was a little white envelope that held an invitation to his high school reunion.
It wasn't skyrocketing blood pressure or the warning from his doctor to lose seventy pounds before his heart gave out that pushed David out of the fast-food line and onto the treadmill. Instead, it was a little white envelope that held an invitation to his high school reunion.
Spring Into Your Autumn Years
People with a positive attitude toward aging can adjust very well when individual circumstances change. Their positive outlook allows them to adapt to the inevitable physical and biochemical changes of the body that are associated with the natural processes of aging. With a healthy outlook on the golden years, even unpredictable setbacks and disabilities can be managed successfully.
People with a positive attitude toward aging can adjust very well when individual circumstances change. Their positive outlook allows them to adapt to the inevitable physical and biochemical changes of the body that are associated with the natural processes of aging. With a healthy outlook on the golden years, even unpredictable setbacks and disabilities can be managed successfully.
The Healing Truth
As many people who live with cancer know, the discovery of the disease marks the beginning of a new chapter in life. Researchers and healers continue to discover the role attitudes and emotions play in the healing process.
As many people who live with cancer know, the discovery of the disease marks the beginning of a new chapter in life. Researchers and healers continue to discover the role attitudes and emotions play in the healing process.
Laugh and Smile Your Way to Health
Want a totally free, simple way to boost your spirits and your health with no prescription needed? Then you want to laugh and smile as much as possibl.
Want a totally free, simple way to boost your spirits and your health with no prescription needed? Then you want to laugh and smile as much as possibl.
Finding Joy
I'll never forget the day I discovered the sheer joy that is found within even the saddest of times. It was in Mumbai, India, nearly forty years ago. My father's business had been completely decimated. We'd been living day to day, not knowing how we'd get our next meal..
I'll never forget the day I discovered the sheer joy that is found within even the saddest of times. It was in Mumbai, India, nearly forty years ago. My father's business had been completely decimated. We'd been living day to day, not knowing how we'd get our next meal..
An Attitude of Gratitude
My favourite holiday is Thanksgiving. I love the fall, the food, and the friends and family that are all associated with Thanksgiving. Every year at our Thanksgiving table we share with each other the things we are most thankful for.
My favourite holiday is Thanksgiving. I love the fall, the food, and the friends and family that are all associated with Thanksgiving. Every year at our Thanksgiving table we share with each other the things we are most thankful for.
Cancer Diagnosis
A number of years ago one of the most popular songs on the radio instructed us to "don't worry, be happy. It was a nice sentiment-but we understand that life is not that simple. I fear that in writing this month's column on emotional health and breast cancer that it may sound like "don't worry, be happy. I assure you it isn't..
A number of years ago one of the most popular songs on the radio instructed us to "don't worry, be happy. It was a nice sentiment-but we understand that life is not that simple. I fear that in writing this month's column on emotional health and breast cancer that it may sound like "don't worry, be happy. I assure you it isn't..
Three Steps to Happiness
Happiness is our natural state of being. It is who we are. Happiness is obvious in little childre.
Happiness is our natural state of being. It is who we are. Happiness is obvious in little childre.
Love and Health are a Perfect Match
Through self-love we may come to know and accept ourselves in a healthier way. Many women's magazines suggest a warm bubble bath once a week equals self-love. While this perception may leave us a bit cleaner, it does not, in itself, translate to greater health.
Through self-love we may come to know and accept ourselves in a healthier way. Many women's magazines suggest a warm bubble bath once a week equals self-love. While this perception may leave us a bit cleaner, it does not, in itself, translate to greater health.
Forever Young
All of us want to have longer and healthier lives, and while some of us are dealt a better hand than others in life's genetic lottery, there are many ways we can maximize the potential we are born with.
All of us want to have longer and healthier lives, and while some of us are dealt a better hand than others in life's genetic lottery, there are many ways we can maximize the potential we are born with.
Locus of Control
We consider many of life's experiences as good, bad, or somewhere in between. We credit our accomplishments in life to luck or personal effort or, again, somewhere in between.
We consider many of life's experiences as good, bad, or somewhere in between. We credit our accomplishments in life to luck or personal effort or, again, somewhere in between.
Swallowing Emotions
From the mind/body perspective, physical illnesses may be expressions of basic psychological wounds, developing out of the emotional defences we construct to avoid feeling pain.
From the mind/body perspective, physical illnesses may be expressions of basic psychological wounds, developing out of the emotional defences we construct to avoid feeling pain.
Laughing Matters
According to Dr. Billy Strean, professor of physical education at the University of Alberta and certified laughter coach, "When you laugh, your brain chemistry changes and everything starts to work the way it's supposed to.
According to Dr. Billy Strean, professor of physical education at the University of Alberta and certified laughter coach, "When you laugh, your brain chemistry changes and everything starts to work the way it's supposed to.
Saying No to Negativity
Recently, my friend Jim started complaining again about his boss and his job. "If you tried to have a positive attitude for a change, I suggested, "you'd be happier and feel better about life. "Oh, that's a bunch of bull, Jim replied..
Recently, my friend Jim started complaining again about his boss and his job. "If you tried to have a positive attitude for a change, I suggested, "you'd be happier and feel better about life. "Oh, that's a bunch of bull, Jim replied..
Community Connection
Community" was a concept that most people took for granted a few generations.
Community" was a concept that most people took for granted a few generations.
Living True to Your Values
You've seen them-people who smile from ear to ear and seem to exude inner peace. Do you know how they got that oh-so-good feeling? Chances are that they figured out what was really important to them and began living true to those values.
You've seen them-people who smile from ear to ear and seem to exude inner peace. Do you know how they got that oh-so-good feeling? Chances are that they figured out what was really important to them and began living true to those values.
What Do I Do With All These Feelings?
With Christmas having come and gone, many of us may be suffering from a post-holiday hangover-not just from the drinking, but from the spending, the eating, the partying and the dealings with family, too. So what exactly do we do to not get depressed and discouraged?The key lies in the ability to process our emotions..
With Christmas having come and gone, many of us may be suffering from a post-holiday hangover-not just from the drinking, but from the spending, the eating, the partying and the dealings with family, too. So what exactly do we do to not get depressed and discouraged?The key lies in the ability to process our emotions..
Look for Balance and Feel Balanced!
Research has catapulted emotional health to the forefront of wellness. The consensus now is that mental health is the new frontier for peak performance and quality of life, while stress and depression its nemesis.
Research has catapulted emotional health to the forefront of wellness. The consensus now is that mental health is the new frontier for peak performance and quality of life, while stress and depression its nemesis.
Laugh Your Way to Better Health
We've all heard the bromide, "Laughter is the best medicine," but are we getting a regular dose? Besides our positive emotions and the discharge of endorphins, natural pain-killers released by the body when we laugh, there are many physical benefits to be gained by a laughter.
We've all heard the bromide, "Laughter is the best medicine," but are we getting a regular dose? Besides our positive emotions and the discharge of endorphins, natural pain-killers released by the body when we laugh, there are many physical benefits to be gained by a laughter.
Create the Holiday You'd Love to Have
Take two weeks in December to break yourroutine-travel, overeat, overdrink, under-exercise, and undersleep (with relatives inclose quarters)-and you have the potential for disaster. Oh yeah, add a NewYear's celebration in there, too.
Take two weeks in December to break yourroutine-travel, overeat, overdrink, under-exercise, and undersleep (with relatives inclose quarters)-and you have the potential for disaster. Oh yeah, add a NewYear's celebration in there, too.
De-Stressing Our Children This Holiday Season
When we think of the holiday season, weconjure up images of beautifully wrappedpresents, out-of-town relatives, and delicious food. Yet, even though the holidayseason can be filled with joy and abundance, this time of year can also bequite stressful for adults and children.
When we think of the holiday season, weconjure up images of beautifully wrappedpresents, out-of-town relatives, and delicious food. Yet, even though the holidayseason can be filled with joy and abundance, this time of year can also bequite stressful for adults and children.
When Resolutions Lack Resolve
Gosh, is it January already? I know you have some great ideas about what to do with this new beginning. Maybe you'll quit bad habits or vow to get into shape; or maybe you'll make this the year you get organized.
Gosh, is it January already? I know you have some great ideas about what to do with this new beginning. Maybe you'll quit bad habits or vow to get into shape; or maybe you'll make this the year you get organized.
The Power of Love
It's not just an old-fashioned love song. Relationships have the power to nurture our wellness more than any other factor. The added benefit, of course, is that we can literally improve the health of all those involved-including ourselves. Tell the special people in your life that you appreciate them.
It's not just an old-fashioned love song. Relationships have the power to nurture our wellness more than any other factor. The added benefit, of course, is that we can literally improve the health of all those involved-including ourselves. Tell the special people in your life that you appreciate them.
Immunity Gets Personal
In The Immune Power Personality (Dutton,1995), Henry Dreher outlined how character traits can build resistance to disease. Since then a range of experts have supported Dreher's conclusions. What are some of these traits and how can we foster them?
In The Immune Power Personality (Dutton,1995), Henry Dreher outlined how character traits can build resistance to disease. Since then a range of experts have supported Dreher's conclusions. What are some of these traits and how can we foster them?
Healing with The Mind
In the 17th century the philosopher and scientist Descartes ("I think, therefore I am) proposed the separation of the mind from the body.
In the 17th century the philosopher and scientist Descartes ("I think, therefore I am) proposed the separation of the mind from the body.
Taming the Food Tiger
Is your January resolution to lose weight a dim memory now? Don't despair. Here are six ways to change your relationship with food and help you shed weight and keep it off.
Is your January resolution to lose weight a dim memory now? Don't despair. Here are six ways to change your relationship with food and help you shed weight and keep it off.
Four Ways to Commit to a New Habit
A habit is defined as a recurrent, often unconscious pattern of behaviour that is acquired through frequent repetition. "We live mostly by habit, says Ann Graybiel, an MIT professor of brain and cognitive sciences.
A habit is defined as a recurrent, often unconscious pattern of behaviour that is acquired through frequent repetition. "We live mostly by habit, says Ann Graybiel, an MIT professor of brain and cognitive sciences.
Listen to Your Inner Voice for Outer Health
Recent studies have shown that a great percentage of disease processes today are preventable through changes in lifestyle and diet. Well-being is directly connected to our self-image and self-esteem. Unfortunately, the move to become empowered over our health is not likely to happen until a healthy self-image has been realized. This can and will happen by committing to following your voice from within.
Recent studies have shown that a great percentage of disease processes today are preventable through changes in lifestyle and diet. Well-being is directly connected to our self-image and self-esteem. Unfortunately, the move to become empowered over our health is not likely to happen until a healthy self-image has been realized. This can and will happen by committing to following your voice from within.
Boys will be Boys?
We all know that the average life expectancy of your garden-variety man is about five years less than the female. By being a little more proactive about your health and politely reminding your inner bad boy to grow up, you might be well on your way to outliving us ladies!
We all know that the average life expectancy of your garden-variety man is about five years less than the female. By being a little more proactive about your health and politely reminding your inner bad boy to grow up, you might be well on your way to outliving us ladies!
What's your expiry date?
To know the date of your death well in advance would be a rare gift. Or would it?
To know the date of your death well in advance would be a rare gift. Or would it?
Celebrating Women
While sharing a ritual lunchtime with girlfriends, one friend commented about how inspired she was by her new 45-year-old female trainer at the gym. I mentioned my vivacious 51-year-old yoga instructor, and another friend chimed in with her 48-year-old female neighbour who still runs marathons.
While sharing a ritual lunchtime with girlfriends, one friend commented about how inspired she was by her new 45-year-old female trainer at the gym. I mentioned my vivacious 51-year-old yoga instructor, and another friend chimed in with her 48-year-old female neighbour who still runs marathons.
Life Makeover
How do you set out to make yourself a priority? Whether it is eating healthier, exercising, or taking time just to be, you need to tap into what your spirit is yearning for.
How do you set out to make yourself a priority? Whether it is eating healthier, exercising, or taking time just to be, you need to tap into what your spirit is yearning for.
Seven Tips for Deriving Energy from Your Relationships
We all want to be physically healthy, but if our emotional life is unbalanced, efforts to reach our full health potential may be thwarted. Following these simple tips and surrounding yourself with positive relationships will re-energize you and pave the way to achieving your full health potential.
We all want to be physically healthy, but if our emotional life is unbalanced, efforts to reach our full health potential may be thwarted. Following these simple tips and surrounding yourself with positive relationships will re-energize you and pave the way to achieving your full health potential.
The Zen of Blacktop
How many times have we read articles extolling the soul-soothing attributes of nature? Many of us have come to believe we can only reach inner peace by leaving the city life behind. The sanctimonious gurus saying we can recharge the soul only through nature's retreats can be put to rest. Those living within the vortex of the city can find peace, too.
How many times have we read articles extolling the soul-soothing attributes of nature? Many of us have come to believe we can only reach inner peace by leaving the city life behind. The sanctimonious gurus saying we can recharge the soul only through nature's retreats can be put to rest. Those living within the vortex of the city can find peace, too.
Let's Talk Success
In order to achieve success, men can become outwardly aggressive in their drive for their goals and often this aggression leads to ill health-physical and mental. It is well documented that extreme emotional states such as aggression, anxiety, or depression negatively affect a man's health and can create myriad problems, including heart disease, high blood pressure, and stroke.
In order to achieve success, men can become outwardly aggressive in their drive for their goals and often this aggression leads to ill health-physical and mental. It is well documented that extreme emotional states such as aggression, anxiety, or depression negatively affect a man's health and can create myriad problems, including heart disease, high blood pressure, and stroke.
The Value of Volunteering
When you ask people why they volunteer, they usually tell you that they feel enriched by their activities and that it just feels good to do good. A 1991 report from Volunteer Ontario confirms that volunteer work lowers blood pressure, strengthens the immune system, and enhances self-esteem.
When you ask people why they volunteer, they usually tell you that they feel enriched by their activities and that it just feels good to do good. A 1991 report from Volunteer Ontario confirms that volunteer work lowers blood pressure, strengthens the immune system, and enhances self-esteem.
Moving on Up!
Just about everyone goes through an occasional bout of feeling down. Along with a better diet and daily exercise, adding a few tried and true mood boosters to your nutritional and herbal supplement program often makes a noticeable difference in a short period of time.
Just about everyone goes through an occasional bout of feeling down. Along with a better diet and daily exercise, adding a few tried and true mood boosters to your nutritional and herbal supplement program often makes a noticeable difference in a short period of time.
Why Act Your Age When You're Young at Heart?
The Red Hat Societ is a social group whose main responsibility is to have fun. The group's mission is to gain higher visibility for women aged 50 and older and to reshape the way they are viewed by today's culture.
The Red Hat Societ is a social group whose main responsibility is to have fun. The group's mission is to gain higher visibility for women aged 50 and older and to reshape the way they are viewed by today's culture.
Laugh and Play-Every Day
Take steps to actively incorporate play into your daily or weekly activities. Start small and work up to something bigger. It will enhance the quality of your life and the lives of those close to you. Plus, you'll be more fun to be around.
Take steps to actively incorporate play into your daily or weekly activities. Start small and work up to something bigger. It will enhance the quality of your life and the lives of those close to you. Plus, you'll be more fun to be around.
Resolve to Evolve Within
What if this New Year, the resolutions you make are focused less on the external you and more on the essence of you? Self-empowerment and emotional health can become your new goal. A new year brings a chance for each of us to realize the power within us that is the truth of who we are.
What if this New Year, the resolutions you make are focused less on the external you and more on the essence of you? Self-empowerment and emotional health can become your new goal. A new year brings a chance for each of us to realize the power within us that is the truth of who we are.
Effective Goal Setting
Effective goal setting is not a process that begins January 1 and ends the same week. Implementing simple steps daily will start you on the road to discovering and achieving your goals. The more you focus on the details, the clearer your goal will become. Adding details like who, what, where, when, and how you'll achieve that goal will make it more specific and attainable.
Effective goal setting is not a process that begins January 1 and ends the same week. Implementing simple steps daily will start you on the road to discovering and achieving your goals. The more you focus on the details, the clearer your goal will become. Adding details like who, what, where, when, and how you'll achieve that goal will make it more specific and attainable.
Did You Hear the One About...?
Just as many of us have forgotten how to laugh, scientists have begun to study the benefits of laughter. Dr. Lee Berk of Loma Linda University in California has researched laughter extensively and has shown that not only is the immune system boosted, but natural killer cells-which fight certain types of cancer-are increased when we laugh.
Just as many of us have forgotten how to laugh, scientists have begun to study the benefits of laughter. Dr. Lee Berk of Loma Linda University in California has researched laughter extensively and has shown that not only is the immune system boosted, but natural killer cells-which fight certain types of cancer-are increased when we laugh.
Create a Brighter Tomorrow
A positive vision of your future will keep you going and help you to learn, grow, and persevere. It will help you to boost your immunity to short-term failure and find the silver lining in temporary setbacks.
A positive vision of your future will keep you going and help you to learn, grow, and persevere. It will help you to boost your immunity to short-term failure and find the silver lining in temporary setbacks.
Wheeling and Mealing
Volunteering can improve the state of your own health while adding to the quality of the lives of others. In fact, helping others is proven to be one of the healthiest things you can do for yourself. Meals on Wheels provides great opportunities for this kind of exchange.
Volunteering can improve the state of your own health while adding to the quality of the lives of others. In fact, helping others is proven to be one of the healthiest things you can do for yourself. Meals on Wheels provides great opportunities for this kind of exchange.
Attract a Positive State of Mind
What did you say to yourself the last time you looked in the mirror? Did you think about how wonderful you are and how good you look? Or did you say and think something negative? What you say to yourself can have as much impact on your health as careful eating and proper exercise.
What did you say to yourself the last time you looked in the mirror? Did you think about how wonderful you are and how good you look? Or did you say and think something negative? What you say to yourself can have as much impact on your health as careful eating and proper exercise.
The Biology of Winning
New findings in the field of neurobiology-the scientific study of the brain and nervous system-are shedding light on why some people are highly successful and talented and how the rest of us might learn to be that way, too.
New findings in the field of neurobiology-the scientific study of the brain and nervous system-are shedding light on why some people are highly successful and talented and how the rest of us might learn to be that way, too.
Love's labours tossed
Whee-Valentine's Day. As holidays go, it's not exactly a rip-snorter, is it? But hey, I'm all for breaking out my credit card yet again and supporting the florists and candy-makers.
Whee-Valentine's Day. As holidays go, it's not exactly a rip-snorter, is it? But hey, I'm all for breaking out my credit card yet again and supporting the florists and candy-makers.
Deepak Chopra
Deepak Chopra isn't exactly known for being a man of few words. The New Delhi-born, California-based health guru is notorious for giving talks that last three to four hours and for peppering his speeches with personal anecdotes and self-deprecating jokes.
Deepak Chopra isn't exactly known for being a man of few words. The New Delhi-born, California-based health guru is notorious for giving talks that last three to four hours and for peppering his speeches with personal anecdotes and self-deprecating jokes.
The Anatomy of Spirit
Three years ago, I stepped away from my life-relationships, commitments, and responsibilities-to travel as a pilgrim. My only possessions rested in the rucksack on my back. I did this to search my soul for answers, heal past hurts, and move forward toward the future.
Three years ago, I stepped away from my life-relationships, commitments, and responsibilities-to travel as a pilgrim. My only possessions rested in the rucksack on my back. I did this to search my soul for answers, heal past hurts, and move forward toward the future.
Canine Wisdom
One of my best teachers, Jessie, was also one of my best friends. She was with me right up until her 98th year-dog years, that is.
One of my best teachers, Jessie, was also one of my best friends. She was with me right up until her 98th year-dog years, that is.
The Lessons of Spring
Spring is a sensuous teacher. Every year she steps out of the darkness and cold and seductively dances around us. She embraces us with her light and warmth. She intoxicates us with her fragrance. Like a potent elixir, spring revives our hope. She breathes life into death and teaches us the lessons of renewal and rebirth.
Spring is a sensuous teacher. Every year she steps out of the darkness and cold and seductively dances around us. She embraces us with her light and warmth. She intoxicates us with her fragrance. Like a potent elixir, spring revives our hope. She breathes life into death and teaches us the lessons of renewal and rebirth.
Learning, Growing, and Parallel Parking
Do you get that itchy, unsettled "spring fever feeling this time of year? It used to worry me, but now I know it's just a winter's worth of pent-up energy dying to come out.
Do you get that itchy, unsettled "spring fever feeling this time of year? It used to worry me, but now I know it's just a winter's worth of pent-up energy dying to come out.
Canada's Bold and Beautiful Singer-Songwriter
I am worried about interviewing Jann Arden-she's written and said so much to the public and press already. Will we be able to cover new ground?
I am worried about interviewing Jann Arden-she's written and said so much to the public and press already. Will we be able to cover new ground?
The Science of Feeling Great
Most people think of their metabolism as affecting their ability to gain or lose weight. But our metabolism also affects mood and the way we feel. The truth of the matter is that we feel our best when we maintain the production and function of neurotransmitters-essential elements of brain metabolism.
Most people think of their metabolism as affecting their ability to gain or lose weight. But our metabolism also affects mood and the way we feel. The truth of the matter is that we feel our best when we maintain the production and function of neurotransmitters-essential elements of brain metabolism.
Rick Hansen 20 Years Later
The man's got charisma. Rick Hansen, who turns 50 in August this year, rolls forward to speak into the microphone, sending the crowd into cheers. The crowd is as loud as any this Man in Motion heard at the peak of his round-the-world wheelchair tour 20 years ago.
The man's got charisma. Rick Hansen, who turns 50 in August this year, rolls forward to speak into the microphone, sending the crowd into cheers. The crowd is as loud as any this Man in Motion heard at the peak of his round-the-world wheelchair tour 20 years ago.
From Confusion to Clarity
Stephen was considering what looked like a fairly straightforward decision-a move from the hustle and bustle of Vancouver to the quiet peace of a spectacular oceanside home on a nearby island. He felt quite clear about it until his adult daughter implied he was abandoning her. Instantly his peace of mind evaporated.
Stephen was considering what looked like a fairly straightforward decision-a move from the hustle and bustle of Vancouver to the quiet peace of a spectacular oceanside home on a nearby island. He felt quite clear about it until his adult daughter implied he was abandoning her. Instantly his peace of mind evaporated.
Escape from the Space Invaders!
Every morning and evening, Monday to Friday, I commute-with my face stuffed into someone's armpit or an elbow jabbing my ribs. I realized very quickly that, with my personal space being compromised this way, the need for a sanctuary at home was crucial for maintaining my sanity.
Every morning and evening, Monday to Friday, I commute-with my face stuffed into someone's armpit or an elbow jabbing my ribs. I realized very quickly that, with my personal space being compromised this way, the need for a sanctuary at home was crucial for maintaining my sanity.
The Upside of Ulcerative Colitis
Some health conditions are a little classier than others. My friend has a plastic leg called Ursula, which she's removed and chastised for not performing well in Pilates-now that's classy. My disease involves gurgly guts, painful gas, bloody toilet tissue, and diarrhea-that's not classy.
Some health conditions are a little classier than others. My friend has a plastic leg called Ursula, which she's removed and chastised for not performing well in Pilates-now that's classy. My disease involves gurgly guts, painful gas, bloody toilet tissue, and diarrhea-that's not classy.
Look on the Bright Side
Recall a day when you woke up in the morning feeling positive? I bet you had a great day. Want more of that?
Recall a day when you woke up in the morning feeling positive? I bet you had a great day. Want more of that?
Celebrate Life
Oscar Wilde once said, "To live is the rarest thing in the world. Most people exist, that is all. The question is, are you merely surviving from day to day, or are you grasping everything you can from life?
Oscar Wilde once said, "To live is the rarest thing in the world. Most people exist, that is all. The question is, are you merely surviving from day to day, or are you grasping everything you can from life?
Sharing the Secret
My son and I watched a DVD called The Secret. It has popularized the law of attraction: by focusing on what you want, you can attract it into your life. From the look on my seven-year-old's face, I could tell he was making a list.
My son and I watched a DVD called The Secret. It has popularized the law of attraction: by focusing on what you want, you can attract it into your life. From the look on my seven-year-old's face, I could tell he was making a list.
Living an Authentic Life
In a world where success is defined by money, and happiness is just a weight-loss plan away, many of us have lost sight of our most valuable asset: our true selves. By living authentically, however, we can reach our potential and experience true happiness.
In a world where success is defined by money, and happiness is just a weight-loss plan away, many of us have lost sight of our most valuable asset: our true selves. By living authentically, however, we can reach our potential and experience true happiness.
The Power of a Positive Mindset
I'm often asked for simple tips for achieving optimal health. Here are my three top tips: 1. Make the decision to change; 2. believe in yourself; and 3. apply the necessary strategies to get you there!
I'm often asked for simple tips for achieving optimal health. Here are my three top tips: 1. Make the decision to change; 2. believe in yourself; and 3. apply the necessary strategies to get you there!
Helper's High
Is it good to be good? People express their compassion in different ways. Some volunteer with people. Others volunteer with animals. Although all good works produce health benefits, including improved immunity and reduced anxiety and depression, different activities have different ripple effects.
Is it good to be good? People express their compassion in different ways. Some volunteer with people. Others volunteer with animals. Although all good works produce health benefits, including improved immunity and reduced anxiety and depression, different activities have different ripple effects.
Volunteering-If It Feels Good, Do It!
Now that January's out of the way-the bills are paid, my sanity's relatively intact, the gift wrap's finally put away-I'm ready to tackle one of my goals for the year, which is to take on some kind of volunteer work.
Now that January's out of the way-the bills are paid, my sanity's relatively intact, the gift wrap's finally put away-I'm ready to tackle one of my goals for the year, which is to take on some kind of volunteer work.
A Conversation with k.d. lang
k.d. lang has sung with the best-Tony Bennett, Roy Orbison, Loretta Lynn-not bad for a girl from Consort, Alberta, population 739.
k.d. lang has sung with the best-Tony Bennett, Roy Orbison, Loretta Lynn-not bad for a girl from Consort, Alberta, population 739.
Embracing Change
Change. Most of us dislike contemplating the concept because it means giving up our comfort zone. Here is the good news: small changes over time lead to large results. Think of small steps working together in the same way as compound interest.
Change. Most of us dislike contemplating the concept because it means giving up our comfort zone. Here is the good news: small changes over time lead to large results. Think of small steps working together in the same way as compound interest.
Worrying Ourselves to Death
Have you ever tried counting your worries? While drafting this article I managed to squeeze in worries about my gobbled-down breakfast, my half-baked plans for the rest of the day, and what I can do to ease pain in various aching body parts-to name but a few ever-nagging worries.
Have you ever tried counting your worries? While drafting this article I managed to squeeze in worries about my gobbled-down breakfast, my half-baked plans for the rest of the day, and what I can do to ease pain in various aching body parts-to name but a few ever-nagging worries.
Sunday Dinner
In the many years that have elapsed since moving out of my childhood home, Sunday dinner held about as much meaning as dinner any other day of the week. I ate whatever I could scrounge up, or went to a restaurant, or, for a rather debauched period, just ate chips in front of the TV until it was time to go to the nightclub again.
In the many years that have elapsed since moving out of my childhood home, Sunday dinner held about as much meaning as dinner any other day of the week. I ate whatever I could scrounge up, or went to a restaurant, or, for a rather debauched period, just ate chips in front of the TV until it was time to go to the nightclub again.
Building a Health Reserve
Hoping to be a healthy elder? Then stock your health bank as faithfully as your financial one. Healthy aging requires preparation. This month's Research Watch discusses what you need to know to build up your health reserves for a long and healthy life.
Hoping to be a healthy elder? Then stock your health bank as faithfully as your financial one. Healthy aging requires preparation. This month's Research Watch discusses what you need to know to build up your health reserves for a long and healthy life.
Living the Good Life
Golfing, sailing, travelling-what a life those 65-going-on-25-year-old retirees live in those television ads! For many of us, that day seems too distant to even contemplate. The earlier our planning begins, however, the better our chances of having financial security and freedom at retirement.
Golfing, sailing, travelling-what a life those 65-going-on-25-year-old retirees live in those television ads! For many of us, that day seems too distant to even contemplate. The earlier our planning begins, however, the better our chances of having financial security and freedom at retirement.
Imagine Your Way to Better Health
In my darker moments-when bills, work, and deadlines all conspire against me-I have a fantasy. In it, I return to a remote spot on the Mediterranean coast where gentle waves lap against a sleepy shoreline and vast, open skies arch overhead. Everything is blue, sensual, and calm.
In my darker moments-when bills, work, and deadlines all conspire against me-I have a fantasy. In it, I return to a remote spot on the Mediterranean coast where gentle waves lap against a sleepy shoreline and vast, open skies arch overhead. Everything is blue, sensual, and calm.
What is Gratitude?
"Dear God, we paid for all this stuff ourselves, so thanks for nothing. Television character Bart Simpson's dinner table blessing is inappropriate, but we relate to it. Like Bart, we are often ungrateful because we feel a sense of entitlement. This Thanksgiving let's put gratitude on the menu.
"Dear God, we paid for all this stuff ourselves, so thanks for nothing. Television character Bart Simpson's dinner table blessing is inappropriate, but we relate to it. Like Bart, we are often ungrateful because we feel a sense of entitlement. This Thanksgiving let's put gratitude on the menu.
Sampling the Fountain of Youth
I caught the end of a stand-up comedian's routine the other night while channel surfing. He joked that plastic surgery "makes you look young in the same way that a drag queen looks like a woman. There's just something a little off...
I caught the end of a stand-up comedian's routine the other night while channel surfing. He joked that plastic surgery "makes you look young in the same way that a drag queen looks like a woman. There's just something a little off...
All I Want for Christmas
When I asked my daughter about what to write for December's column, her immediate reply was "snowmen. While that's probably not the ideal basis for an entire article, it did get me thinking.
When I asked my daughter about what to write for December's column, her immediate reply was "snowmen. While that's probably not the ideal basis for an entire article, it did get me thinking.
Take a Load Off: 5 Steps to Reducing Stress by Decluttering Debt
Clutter got you down? Well perk up! The New Year is the ideal time to clean out the previous year's accumulation of junk, dust, and debt. Holiday credit card bills, home renovation payments, start-of-the-year bills-these are the stuff that can make you toss and turn at night.
Clutter got you down? Well perk up! The New Year is the ideal time to clean out the previous year's accumulation of junk, dust, and debt. Holiday credit card bills, home renovation payments, start-of-the-year bills-these are the stuff that can make you toss and turn at night.
Choose a Smoke-free Lifestyle
Smoking kills. If you smoke, you need to stop. It's that simple. According to the Canadian Lung Association smoking directly kills about 45,000 Canadians each year-more than the total combined number of annual deaths from AIDS, car accidents, suicides, murders, fires, and accidental poisonings.
Smoking kills. If you smoke, you need to stop. It's that simple. According to the Canadian Lung Association smoking directly kills about 45,000 Canadians each year-more than the total combined number of annual deaths from AIDS, car accidents, suicides, murders, fires, and accidental poisonings.
Losing Weight
The New Year kicks off with parties presenting irresistible desserts, delicious eggnog, and those tasty little appetizers that are so hard to refuse! With the alcohol flowing and office or family gatherings happening all around you, temptation is at an all-time high.
The New Year kicks off with parties presenting irresistible desserts, delicious eggnog, and those tasty little appetizers that are so hard to refuse! With the alcohol flowing and office or family gatherings happening all around you, temptation is at an all-time high.
Addiction Prescription
You're determined (this time) to lose that weight, quit smoking or ... You have the plan, the courage, the discipline, and the commitment. You have the gidgets and the gadgets. Why is it still an overwhelming challenge?
You're determined (this time) to lose that weight, quit smoking or ... You have the plan, the courage, the discipline, and the commitment. You have the gidgets and the gadgets. Why is it still an overwhelming challenge?
New Year's Workout
Change is one of those words that often evokes powerful emotions, both scary and exciting, all at once. Change can mean different things to different people, but come New Year's, the number-one change that most people try to implement in their lives is better health and fitness.
Change is one of those words that often evokes powerful emotions, both scary and exciting, all at once. Change can mean different things to different people, but come New Year's, the number-one change that most people try to implement in their lives is better health and fitness.
Tune into Your body's Rhythm
What images come to mind when you hear or see the word meditation? How many of those images include movement? For the average person, not many.
What images come to mind when you hear or see the word meditation? How many of those images include movement? For the average person, not many.
Volunteers for the Environment
We are so closely connected to other forms of life on our planet that survival without them is unthinkable. And although we have the power of intellect, we can never consider ourselves as superior. On the contrary, we need these species in order to survive.
We are so closely connected to other forms of life on our planet that survival without them is unthinkable. And although we have the power of intellect, we can never consider ourselves as superior. On the contrary, we need these species in order to survive.
Empowering the Feminine
Although its origins are uncertain, one theory is that belly dancing was performed to strengthen women’s abdominal muscles for childbirth.
Although its origins are uncertain, one theory is that belly dancing was performed to strengthen women’s abdominal muscles for childbirth.
