The differences between optimists and pessimists can make great jokes and memes, but they can also be quite consequential when it comes to relationships and health. As we saw last month, pessimism can contribute to poor health outcomes (physical and mental), worsen quality of life, and strain relationships. I tend to be a little on … [Read more...] about How Pessimists Can Cultivate Optimism
Promoting Healthful Living
What Makes Someone an Optimist or Pessimist? Does it Matter Which You Are?
Two of my daughters couldn’t be more different when it comes to how they view life. One has a sunny, positive outlook, while the other has a cloudy, negative outlook. Traditionally, these outlooks are represented by how one views a cup that is partially filled with liquid. Is the cup half full or half empty? Those who view the cup as … [Read more...] about What Makes Someone an Optimist or Pessimist? Does it Matter Which You Are?
Go Touch Grass! It’s Good for Your Health
After a long, hot summer, we finally had a truly chilly morning a few days ago. Though it was still dark, I stepped outside with my coffee to take it in. I stepped to the edge of the porch and poked at the crisp grass with my foot. This brought to mind how, in response to someone who has become a little detached from reality, folks will … [Read more...] about Go Touch Grass! It’s Good for Your Health
Are Expensive Toothpastes More Effective?
Last time I was at the dentist for a teeth cleaning, the dental hygienist handed me a toothpaste sample on my way out of the office. Because it was small in size, I took the sample with me when we traveled to look for housing before our move last fall. I really liked its flavor, so I went to add some to my cart last time I needed toothpaste. … [Read more...] about Are Expensive Toothpastes More Effective?
Solutions for Stinky Shoes
I’m starting this year by literally airing some dirty laundry. In recent months, my family has had quite the problem with stinky shoes. My kids’ shoes, my husband’s shoes, and my shoes—all are victims of bromodosis (the scientific term for smelly feet). I’ve tried several approaches for removing the odor. After numerous attempts, I almost … [Read more...] about Solutions for Stinky Shoes
Christmas Light Safety Tips
The glow of Christmas lights is one of the many enjoyable aspects of the Christmas season. Unfortunately, for many families, the tradition of Christmas lights quickly turns to tragedy. In the U.S., nearly 15,000 people are treated in hospital emergency departments each year because of injuries related to holiday decorating (source). … [Read more...] about Christmas Light Safety Tips
Mosquito Repellents: What Products are Safe and Effective?
My kids and I have been covered with itchy mosquito bites these last few weeks. These bites are an unpleasant effect of spending so much time outside this spring. I’m typically concerned about mosquito bites because they cause discomfort, but the reality is that they’re also a potential health treat. Twelve of the 200 types of mosquitos that … [Read more...] about Mosquito Repellents: What Products are Safe and Effective?
Essential Items for Your Disaster Preparedness Kit
You can’t go but a day or two without turning on the news and hearing about a disaster. Sometimes these are natural disasters such as floods and wildfires, and other times they are man-made disasters such as hazardous material spills and industrial accidents. Because disasters are common and no geographic location is immune to them, it is … [Read more...] about Essential Items for Your Disaster Preparedness Kit
