Have you noticed a difference in your dreams during the pandemic? If so, you are not alone. A May 2020 study of more than 3,000 U. S. adults found that those who were the most impacted by the pandemic noticed a strong impact on their dream life (Schredl and Bulkeley, 2020). Let’s find out why.
Read MoreDo you find recently that you struggle to find words or names? Are you having trouble focusing, thinking, planning, and getting things done? If so, you are not alone. It is highly likely this is a result of pandemic-related stress. Let’s learn how mindfulness can help.
Read MoreDealing with today's enormous challenges may have led us to act out in ways that are not characteristic of our behavior, especially toward others. We may find that we are a little more impatient, irritable, and intolerant of others. However, allowing ourselves to go down this path is not good for our mental or physical health. It is certainly not good for our relationships. A powerful antidote for these feelings is injecting kindness into our thoughts and deeds.
Read MoreIt’s incredible how much research is coming out on the psychological impact of Covid-19. Today alone, I found twenty new peer-reviewed studies. A helpful study in the Behavior Analysis in Practice offered straightforward advice for successfully dealing with the pandemic's psychological effects. Here are some of the highlights.
Read MoreDuring this pandemic, we have all been subjected to a higher level of boredom. Often boredom is associated with consuming higher quantities of fats, carbohydrates, and proteins (Moynihan et al., 2015). When we are stressed, many of us look for sugary or comfort foods to help soothe ourselves. So, what can we do about it?
Read MoreI have had more than one person jokingly say to me, "Please excuse me, I have COVID brain." It seems that they may be right. Recent research in neuroscience seems to indicate that there just may be a "COVID brain". This study describes how the pandemic changes our brain, both for those who have been infected and those who have not.
Read MoreRecent research in the neuroscience of learning has revealed a linkage between overall well-being and the learning process. Educators understand this linkage and have become increasingly concerned about the high level of stress and anxiety in today’s learning environment. That's because they know learning is maximized when it occurs in a positive, healthy, efficient, and effective manner. So, what can we do about it?
Read MoreBefore a vaccine, the two most promising strategies to reduce the risk of Covid-19 are: 1) practicing mitigation strategies of social distancing, hand washing, and wearing a mask, and 2) adopting lifestyle practices aligned to good immune health (Simpson et al., 2020). Let’s take a look at how regular physical activity boosts your immune system.
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