Author Archives: phyllis
Why Technology is OK for Kids
We have just returned from a family vacation in Whistler, Canada. Some days we took a gondola up the mountain and hiked trails to streams and waterfalls. Others we biked around the countryside to swim in local lakes. With five active grandsons ages 8-13 and their forty-something parents, we had plenty of exercise and physical challenge. Yet whenever we returned from our adventures, the main pull for the boys was their electronic devices. And a typical parental request? Please turn that off and go outside or play a game. I often … Continue reading
Robin Williams: The Mask of Humor
Beloved actor Robin Williams struggled with depression and substance abuse throughout his illustrious career, and recently was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. On Monday, August 11, he committed suicide at the age of 63. We all wear masks at one time or another, pretending that everything is OK. It’s common to hide our personal pain. But the bad feelings don’t just disappear. Whether you’re facing a financial crisis, giving up roles that define you, or adjusting to great loss and a new reality, examine how to deal with what’s missing. Decide what … Continue reading
Posted in stress, well-being, your self
Tagged anger, crisis, depression, frustration, healing, humor, masks, pain, Robin Williams, SAD, substance abuse, suffering, suicide, support, therapist
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5 Practical Tips to Reduce Stress
Stress is the body’s response to any stimulus that taxes our personal resources. It can appear, suddenly and unannounced, through a variety of symptoms: Physiologically as headaches or an upset stomach Emotionally by feeling frustrated or overwhelmed Cognitively from memory loss or trouble concentrating Behaviorally with changes in eating or sleep patterns State of mind affects our wellbeing, and we’re all searching for some serenity in this frenetic world. Vacations ease tension, but they’re just too few and far between. So why not take a head trip as your relaxation … Continue reading
Posted in stress, well-being, your self
Tagged burnout, frustration, gratitude, head trip, headaches, memory loss, negative feelings, reduce stress, tension, worry
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Our Millennials and Transition
Life is not linear–it loops around and repeats itself. And when the past presents again, it inspires us to learn more about what to do next. Take Millennials, for example. Some leave home more than once, going back and forth, with small steps each time. Practice makes perfect. And these cumulative experiences prepare them for the ultimate transition into adulthood. At some level, summer camp is the first step toward greater autonomy. Because our kids’ leave-taking is only temporary, we welcome the break from our daily routine. But we know … Continue reading
