We tend to think of stress as something to avoid or something we want to remove from our lives. The reality is that a certain amount of stress may add a little excitement and challenge to our lives. If we had zero stress our lives could become ho-hum and boring. In general, our performance improves as stress increases up to a point….
Read MoreHave you have ever wondered why you don’t feel refreshed after taking a break at work or home? Research indicates that there are helpful and less helpful break-time activities. For example, a good break helps increase our brain function, helps us concentrate, and reduces mental fatigue. On the other hand….
Read MoreThe disparity in desire can lead to a build-up of resentment and create distance in the relationship. Many factors can distract, discourage or dampen libido. These libido killers affect …
Read MoreDo you have trouble landing on a decision? Or trouble sticking to a decision once you have made it? Have you ever delayed deciding until the decision was made for you? Possible reasons for indecisiveness include…
Read MoreThere is, unfortunately too much truth in the idea that the only people we really hurt are those we most love. Exploring our tendencies to...
Read MorePerhaps there is a reason that we have two ears and one mouth. Much of our ability to connect with each other depends upon our openness to hearing what is said. Attentive listening helps us to feel seen and valued. Our attention is a priceless gift….
Read MoreSome mistakenly think that play is something children do. But there are several good reasons to continue having fun throughout our life. Create more fun and joy in your life by approaching …
Read MoreThere is an all too human tendency to become an expert in avoiding responsibility. It can be painful to consider our shortcomings, and it is much easier to look at the flaws in others…
Read MoreAs the pandemic grinds on, the stress is wearing people down. Anxiety and depression are increasing. The struggles of single parents have increased due to being cut off from most everyday social interactions. Then there are casualties….
Read MoreAccording to Zig Ziglar, "When you aim at nothing, you'll hit it every time." Therapeutic goals help move your time in counseling from an enjoyable experience to a growth experience. Your counsellor will work with you to increase…
Read MoreJanuary is a time when thoughts often turn to new year's resolutions. Current restrictions mean that most of us are spending more time with only those who live in our household. Perhaps during this gift of time together, your relationship could benefit from some intentional attention…
Read MoreWe are living in stressful times. Anxiety, frustration, and fear are commonplace. Gratitude is a powerful antidote to negative emotions, and it helps us combat the negative thought train. Eight weeks of gratitude practice can begin to change your brain patterns and increase empathy and happiness…
Read MoreOur beliefs about relationships have a massive impact on the success of our relationships. Faulty assumptions can cause much frustration and disappointment. Sometimes beliefs that seem to be reasonable or even positive can be detrimental because they …
Read MoreAs human beings, we are surprisingly adaptable. A new study has found that “Our psychological immune system is so effective that even though we have an ongoing, persisting stressor, we start to fix ourselves almost immediately “ We can be knocked for a loop when stress, such as a pandemic, hits us; however ...
Read MoreWe celebrated our 44th wedding anniversary this summer. We were married at 18 and 20 years of age, so we had a lot of growing up to do. Not that we were aware of that at the time. Over the years, we have had our share of struggles, but we have also found ways to keep falling in love over and over again. I want to share….
Read MoreIn our relationships, when we take the challenge to face up to and work to remove obstacles that may be preventing closeness and harmony, we may be surprised to find hidden treasures. With persistent and loving efforts, we can frequently discover ways to …
Read MoreToday, the world is feeling a little out of control, as we are dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic, racial tensions, natural disasters, and an economic decline. Focusing on controlling what we can control…
Read MoreWe frequently eat for reasons other than hunger. And the current Covid-19 pandemic has interrupted our schedules and created uncertainty. As our stress has increased, we may find ourselves eating more or eating more of the wrong kinds of food…
Read MoreIt may seem a bit contradictory to say that loving yourself will improve your marriage or relationships. Shouldn’t I be suggesting instead to be more loving toward others?
Read MoreThe COVID-19 pandemic has spread world-wide. There is great uncertainty and anxiety is increasing. These are challenging times, taking care of your mental health and finding peace (even moments of peace) will strengthen your immune system and make you more resilient. Below are several suggestions to help …
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