Overview

The holiday season is a taxing time for many of us. Studies suggest that eight out of ten adults experience elevated stress levels during the winter months. One of the biggest sources of anxiety is family gatherings. Dysfunctional and toxic family dynamics can dredge up old memories and cause tension around the dinner table. Though you can't change your family, you can approach these holiday gatherings with realistic expectations and a few healthy coping mechanisms. Here are some of our top suggestions for managing dysfunctional family dynamics this holiday season. 1.) Assume tha... more ...

Most of us will attend a number of get-togethers throughout the holiday season. Though spending time with friends and family is good for the soul, it can often take a toll on the waistline. By preparing healthier holiday snacks and appetizers, you can indulge in the flavors of the season without worrying about their after-effects. Whether you're attending large parties or simply looking for a quick treat to enjoy at home, these fast and flavorful snacks will surely satisfy your cravings. Festive Winter Salad This tart and flavorful holiday salad features an assortment of sea... more ...

Enjoy the Holidays AloneMany of us find ourselves alone during the holidays. Whether it's due to a recent breakup or high airfare costs, some of us simply need to prepare for solitary celebrations. Though you might be alone for the holidays, a few good practices can help you avoid the pitfalls of loneliness, boredom, and depression. Follow these simple tips for jollier holidays alone.  1.) Don't fall for the commercial hype. Being alone during the holidays isn't wrong or unnatural! Unfortunately, portrayals of stereotypical "happy family" get-togethers leave man... more ...

Though yoga is an ancient practice, it has become drastically more popular in recent years. 9.5% percent of American adults now practice yoga, up from 6.1% in 2007. It seems as though everyone has embraced this soothing and spiritual form of exercise.  Not all yoga is headstands and twisted pretzel poses, however. Many yoga poses are accessible for beginners. Practicing yoga on a regular basis is a great way to improve balance, core strength, and flexibility while reducing pain, anxiety, and fatigue.  Whether you're looking for a new fitness regimen or a practice to soothe your w... more ...

Do you ever find yourself around someone who constantly makes you feel drained, ashamed, and emotionally exhausted? Does someone in your life constantly seem to be at the center of drama, leaving you to constantly care for them? If these scenarios sound familiar to you, you're probably engaged in a relationship with a toxic person. Though relationships with a toxic intimate partner may warrant a breakup, other toxic relationships can be more difficult to avoid. A toxic coworker, parent, sibling, or employer, for instance, may be someone you need to maintain a relationship with despite thei... more ...

As we age, visiting the doctor for regular check-ups becomes increasingly important. Though you might feel perfectly healthy, only a doctor can properly diagnose health problems and treat them before they become more serious. Though blood tests, health screenings, and vaccinations aren't particularly enjoyable, taking care of your health is one of the best ways to maintain a high of life. For better wellness at 50 and beyond, keep your eye on these health conditions. Be sure to visit your doctor for regular check-ups and screenings. Diabetes Adults over 50 should be screened... more ...

Fun & Affordable November Getaways November is one of the best months for affordable travel. With children still in school and most adults organizing trips for the winter holidays, tourists who are able to escape this month are often able to score great prices while avoiding the crowds. Visit one of these great locations to enjoy awesome attractions at budget-friendly prices. Jackson Hole, Wyoming Jackson Hole's location makes it a prime stop for travelers looking to explore the American West. Located just minutes from Grand Teton National Park, this charming town of 10,... more ...

With the U.S. Election Day just around the corner, political discussions are becoming particularly heated and argumentative. Many voters-to-be continue to strive to change the minds of their friends and family before November 8th. Individuals of all nationalities, in fact, have opinions on this year's controversial candidates.  Though discussing politics can be invigorating, bitter fights and snide remarks can also end friendships and cause familial drama. Follow these simple tips to avoid the biggest pitfalls of engaging in political discourse this election season. 1.) Don&... more ...

Autumn is the best time to embrace the flavors of the fall harvest. Though most of us are familiar with pumpkin pie and pumpkin-flavored coffee drinks, there are many more ways to use this delicious winter squash, including in savory dishes.  To make the most of pumpkin season, try out one of the following delicious recipes!  FLUFFY PUMPKIN MUFFINS  These moist, airy muffins are simple yet utterly delicious. Fans of pumpkin pie are guaranteed to enjoy these, particularly as a breakfast treat. Health-conscious bakers can easily reduce the sugar for a healthier version o... more ...

Today, 10 October, 2016, I cancelled my Premium subscription for the simple reason that I am now engaged.Here is proof that even seniors in their early seventies, and beyond, can find love and banish loneliness.I (we) believe that our story is exceptional in that from the second contact on, we fully trusted each other and that is what enabled us to open up about our lives.This trust enabled us to quickly exchange phone numbers and e-mail addresses and to continue our dialogue.After barely three months it had become clear that we had much more in common than either of us had ever imagined and t... more ...