Author Archives: phyllis

Lessons from the Achuar Tribe

We all have a personal narrative, and listening to others’ stories helps us learn more about ourselves. My husband and I, our 4 adult children and 5 grandsons traveled to the basin of the Ecuadorian Amazon River where peace of mind is a natural commodity. It was a breath of fresh air to visit the indigenous Achuar people, as ecological mindfulness and family life are two of their top priorities. They number 6,000 and live on two million acres of ancestral territory, a remote area where they preserve their way … Continue reading

Posted in adult children, extended family, stress, well-being, your self | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Lessons from the Achuar Tribe

Meditation Exercises Your Mental Muscle

Meditation is the new brain food. Studies in neurobiology indicate that a meditation practice can decrease stress-related responses as well as increase self-awareness, compassion and mental equilibrium. Modern science is now up to speed with ancient wisdom. Marcus Aurelius, Roman Emperor from 161 to 180, said: Nowhere can (wo)men find a quieter or more untroubled retreat than in their own souls. Who doesn’t spend time obsessing – about themselves, about regrets from the past, about fears of the future? It would benefit all of us to connect with breath in the present … Continue reading

Posted in stress, well-being, your self | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Meditation Exercises Your Mental Muscle

Giving Back: Lessons from Millennials

So much for the negative stereotypes that those born between 1980 and 2000 are narcissistic and selfish. Lately Millennials have been busy turning their ideas about generativity into action. Although many are still laboring under high levels of student loan debt, navigating a tough job market and living with parents while getting on their feet, they’re also giving money and time to causes that matter to them. Money is but one venue for generosity. Kindness is an even more valuable currency. Alan Cohen, author Data from the 2015 Millennial Impact Project … Continue reading

Posted in your self | Tagged , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Giving Back: Lessons from Millennials

From Mourning to Post Traumatic Growth

Our nation is in a period of mourning. It’s been over a week since the political earthquake and we’ve yet to begin our recovery. We’re caught in the early stages of grief, feeling angry and sad, far from the acceptance that comes at the end of a healing process. Whether we receive our information through news media coverage or social media sites, it’s all about adversity and uncertainty. Some people are frustrated or disillusioned and involved in targeted reactions – protests, boycotts, petitions. Others are feeling vulnerable and worried about their … Continue reading

Posted in stress, well-being, your self | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on From Mourning to Post Traumatic Growth