Tag Archives: challenges

How Reunions Can Change Your Brain

According to neuroscience, our experiences can slowly change our brains. So how do we increase our positive qualities? Apparently, if we repeat activities that involve desirable characteristics–like kindness, gratitude and compassion–these inner strengths can become woven into the fabric of our brains. One of many ways to achieve this is through reunions. And that’s what a group of us just did, reconnected in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada after 50 years!  Most of us had met as young girls in elementary school, remaining close friends through college. And being together last week was … Continue reading

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Opening Doors

As you’ve noticed, Facebook can consume enormous amounts of your free time. There are always new posts to consider – status updates about where an acquaintance is having coffee, crazy cat videos, quizzes to help you discover “what you were in your past life,” tons of recommendations for connections with people you may know since you share mutual “friends.” But sometimes a post can get you thinking as one recently did for me. Our publisher, Fuze, included a photo on Facebook that actor Chris Meloni had placed on his page. … Continue reading

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Positive Effects of Negativity

I was having dinner the other night with a friend who is having a tough time as she goes through a very difficult break-up and I wondered, with all the emphasis in Positive Psychology on resilience and optimism, are we being unrealistic about our abilities to bounce back after a crisis? And is there actually some real value in being unhappy sometimes? Immersed as we are in the ‘dog days of summer’ it might seem like the wrong time to look at such heavy and pessimistic issues, but let’s give … Continue reading

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Passover or Easter and First-time Grandparents – Part Two

 As we’re in the midst of Passover and Easter is about to begin, this week family is at the forefront. As a first-time grandparent you must be easing into your new role.  So see if these practical ideas help: Respect your children. A lot has changed since your parenting days. There are new theories and techniques. Don’t assume that, just because you did it in a certain way, it’s the best. When you hold back, you’ll notice how capable your kids are and how lovingly they care for your grandchildren. Notice how … Continue reading

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