The shift from summer to school brings new routines, new people, and new expectations. For many kids it also brings jitters. The goal is not to eliminate stress completely. It is to give children structure, skills, and a calm anchor at home so they can adapt and thrive. Here are some research informed tips for…
Intelligence, as measured in the traditional sense (IQ or “book smart”) is not the only contributing factor to being successful in life. Emotional intelligence (EI), can be a more accurate predictor of adaptability to situations, which equates to being successful in whatever challenges life throws your way. Not only does being emotionally intelligent help you…
Let’s face it, there is no unconditional love quite like that of a pet. Their loving eyes, playful nature and cuddle ability is hard to match! The emotional benefits of pets are tremendous and extend beyond mental wellness to improved physical health. There is ample research supporting the various advantages of owning a loving animal….
How I love to think about the beach. Whether it is in the middle of a Colorado winter, or the middle of the summer, I find great peace thinking of the rolling waves, gentle breezes, salty aroma, and warm sand of a beach. Many therapists refer to this as a safe place, but I…
Are you living in the moment or are you unaware of the moment because you are so focused on tomorrow, next week, next month or next year? It is easy to coast along on autopilot, lost in our thoughts or worrying about things that are yet to happen. Nevertheless, truly living and enjoying our…
It is easy to become consumed with the down side of situations and to lose site of the goodness and power within ourselves. Nevertheless, recognizing that you have choices is a good starting point that can be truly empowering. Even more important is discovering that you have used the power of choice before in ways…
We have all had those days where we wake up on the wrong side of the bed and find fault with everything for no reason at all. The weather is not what you had hoped, nothing sounds good for breakfast, you don’t want to work, you don’t want to stay home, your spouse is…
Over the years, I have seen many people come in for therapy to work on feeling happier. They are sad, struggling in relationships, recovering from divorce or struggling with parenting. Yet, in their struggles they have forgotten about themselves. Their focus has been outward on relationships and pressures, but stopping, turning attention inward, and…
“I have found that among its other benefits, giving liberates the soul of the giver.” –Maya Angelou The season of giving is here, yet it has become a society that seems to place so much emphasis on giving big gifts, giving expensive gifts, that often people feel that they can’t keep up, and therefore have…
So it’s just about that time of year again when we begin to contemplate what we will promise to improve in our lives as a way of ringing in the New Year. Yes, it’s time to decide on a New Year’s Resolution. For many of us, we can’t even recall our previous resolutions, let alone…