Category: Practical

Micro-connections

It’s easy to live in an anonymous city without bothering to interact with  people. This can become a bad habit for several reasons. The small moments of connection are important. We build walls around us because we are busy and lost in our thoughts. It’s more efficient to be in task mode. Micro-connections are small moments of social connection that have greater impact then we may realize in the moment. I’ll never forget the helpful sales person at Macy’s who spoke to me at length about finding the right undergarment for my mother who couldn’t shop on her own. There

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Create Space

I like to never run out of favorite products. I think I’m addicted to having a full calendar. I have a serious fear of missing out on personal growth. I’m impatient for meetings to start and want to find ways to be productive until the last minute. I don’t think I’m alone. What if this fear and addiction keeps us from really living our lives? Having space in our calendars, our homes, and in our lives is something that takes work and curation. I understand that this may be a foreign concept in this culture. Most people are searching for

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Enjoy The Silence

Silence is truly golden. On a typical day in NYC, one is constantly surrounded by noise or intrusive sounds. The sound of car horns, buses, and sirens abound. Even coffee shops have music playing at loud volumes. One has to search to find a restaurant you can have a conversation in. Against the daily fabric of our lives, our souls cry out for less noise, even if we aren’t aware of it. Power of Silence Silence can be healing. When people are recovering from a physical illness, rest in peace and quiet is recommended. We enjoy moments of silence when

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Flow and Ease

Take a Step Back Last week was so stressful that I hibernated all weekend. Ease and flow are hard things to find right now, but exactly what I need to focus on. Hearing “Be like water..” has never been more helpful. Sometimes it’s easy to forget this simple principle. It’s so hot right now that the best thing is to sit still. This gives me time to think through some things. My first realization is that on a hot summer day, nothing beats iced coffee for me. I feel that all is right in the world and I savor the

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The Arts Heal Us: Part One

In the Beginning When we were young, the arts were a natural and daily part of our lives. As children, we used our creativity to express ourselves. Something happens to us as we mature and are faced with adult responsibilities. We judge ourselves and don’t consider ourselves artists, cutting us from art’s healing power. What We Know Deep Down When people hear their favorite song on the radio, people start tapping their feet. Playing calming music at dinner helps let go of the stresses of the day. Singing in the shower lifts our spirits. Even if we feel self-conscious or

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Making Healthier Eating a Habit

You can’t rely on will power alone. Habits, systems, and being organized will go a long way to help you look and feel your best. I focus on feeling the best, because looking a certain way may not motivate you. Emphasizing adding more fruits and vegetables will help create the foundation of a healthier diet. You want to set yourself up for success. Here are some practical suggestions: Leave a bowl of fruit on the counter so it’s easy to grab an easy snack. Always have a piece of fruit or pre-cut veggies in your bag as a go-to-snack. Plan

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