Gratitude
Our brains help us to survive. We automatically scan the environment for what is wrong, what needs to be fixed in order to protect ourselves. It can be an effort to focus on what is good and right, and what we have to be grateful for. In 1998, Martin Seligman introduced positive psychology. This branch…
Novelty and Happiness
As the summer ends, and we start our usual routines again, it’s a good time for us to note the importance of novelty. Summer is often a time when we have different experiences, and sometimes when we return to the fall, we are resuming familiar patterns of life. Although we may have developed certain routines…
Nesting
During this challenging period, many people are at home more. Some of us are working at home on Zoom, some of us are home with young children, and some are simply home because there are fewer places to safely or comfortably go right now. How does one make the most of one’s situation? Having a…
Savoring
As the holidays approach, and as we continue to go through challenging times, it is a good time for us to focus our attention on positive emotions and experiences. In the field of Positive Psychology there is discussion regarding how to increase the duration, intensity and appreciation of positive emotions and experiences. This practice enhances…
Self-Compassion
As we continue to go through challenging times, with ongoing changes to our lives due to the health crisis, it can be a time for us to focus on self-compassion. What is self-compassion? It is a mindful practice of offering to ourselves the same kindness that we would offer to a friend. We may speak…
Transitions
This time is a period of transition for all of us. We are adjusting to new norms in the society, to new behaviors and expectations. Some of us have gone through major changes in terms of our work, homes, family or social lives. These changes may have included difficult experiences and losses. It is important…