Life entails a wide tapestry of different experiences. Some of those are pleasant, some sad, others challenging. Coping mechanisms are the ways we respond to difficult experiences. We can think of our coping mechanisms as our emotional and behavioral toolbox. But what happens when our responses to our experiences are not helpful? What do we …
10 Most Common Unhealthy Coping Mechanisms: A List Read More »
Groundbreaking research in the 1990s discovered that “mirror neurons” fire whether monkeys perform an activity themselves or observe others engaging in it (Rizzolatti & Fabbri-destro, 2010). In the decades since, studies suggest humans also have mirror neurons, and they are fundamental to what it means to be human (Penagos-Corzo et al., 2022). In fact, neuroscience …
A cultural paradigm shift is happening in awareness of the mind-body connection. Ordinary people are talking about nervous system regulation. People are using “dysregulation” as a catchall to describe how they feel when they are not on top of their game. Or to explain the behavior of their children or partner. What is so wonderful …
What is Nervous System Regulation & Why is it Important? Read More »
Have you ever watched in amazement as a family member or acquaintance overcame seemingly insurmountable obstacles with strength and courage? Coping with life’s challenges is what epic history is made of. Abraham Lincoln overcame crippling depression – then called melancholia – to become President of the United States. What choices did Lincoln make that changed …
Healthy Coping Mechanisms: 9 Adaptive Strategies to Try Read More »
As humans, we depend on others for survival. Starting from birth, the need to be fed, bathed, clothed, sheltered and cared for is essential for survival and optimal function. Because healthy human development requires physical and emotional care, fear of abandonment can result from unmet needs in either childhood or adulthood (Fraley, 2019). The impact …
How to Overcome Fear of Abandonment: 6 Helpful Worksheets Read More »
The Science-Backed Benefits of Practicing Kindness Daily As leading positive psychology researcher Dr. Sonja Lyubomirsky expresses in her book The How of Happiness, “Being kind and generous leads to healthier relationships and greater happiness.” Extensive research demonstrates how even small, regular acts of kindness and generosity can profoundly enhance happiness, health, and social connections. This article will …
How Gratitude Can Improve Your Well-Being and Happiness Gratitude is one of the most powerful positive emotions that can enhance your well-being and happiness. But what is gratitude and how can you practice it in your daily life? In this article, we will explore the definitions, benefits, types, and challenges of gratitude, and share some …
How to Practice Gratitude Daily to Boost Your Happiness, Health and Relationships Read More »
How to Savor Positive Emotions and Boost Your Well-Being Do you want to feel happier, more resilient, and more fulfilled in life? Do you want to build valuable personal resources that can help you achieve your goals and overcome challenges? Do you want to strengthen your relationships with others and express your gratitude more often?If …
How to Enjoy Life More Fully and Deeply with This Simple Technique Read More »
The Power of Positive Emotions: How They Can Boost Your Well-Being and Happiness Have you ever felt a surge of joy when you accomplished a goal, a wave of gratitude when you received a gift, or a burst of love when you hugged someone? If so, you have experienced positive emotions. Positive emotions are pleasant …
The Power of Positive Emotions: How They Can Boost Your Well-Being and Happiness Read More »
“The greatest wealth is health.” ~ Publius Vergilius Maro This is what the ancient Roman poet Virgil said more than 2,000 years ago, and it still holds true today. Health is not only the absence of disease, but also the presence of being well. Well-being is what makes us feel alive, happy, and fulfilled. Well-being …
What Is Well-Being and How to Cultivate It: Lessons On Flourishing Read More »