Researchers at MIT have found a strong relationship between students’ grades and how much sleep they’re getting. What time students go to bed and the consistency of their sleep habits also make a big difference. And no, getting a good night’s sleep just before a big test is not good enough — it takes several nights […]
Scientists have long known about the connection between circadian rhythms and performance, but recent research finds that saving stressful meetings, appointments, and encounters for afternoon or early evening may be healthier for you. Learn more about how to harness your body’s natural rhythms to reduce your metabolic stress load and be a healthier, rested, and […]
Stewardship of our physical and emotional health is important, yet what is one to do when the diagnosis is difficult and chronic? Clinical psychologist and professor Joseph Trunzo offers some suggestions, including considering ACT therapy (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy). “You might not have a choice about your illness,” says Bruno, “but you do have choices […]
The regular practice of meditation can not only bring you closer to God and improve your faith and prayer life, it also improves overall wellness and health, scientists affirm. Lower blood pressure, greater emotional intelligence, a longer attention span and less anxiety are only some of the benefits, says healthline. (Photo: lel4nd, Creative Commons)
When younger and older connect, writes Marc Freedman, the intergenerational relationships built are a route to success in early life and a key to happiness and well-being in our later years. Congregations are the perfect incubators for meaningful cross-gen relationships. Read more about the health, well-being, and financial benefits here. (Photo: Tim Pierce, Creative Commons)
Yoga is an ancient mind-body practice that combines physical poses, controlled breathing, and meditation or relaxation. This article from the Mayo Clinic says that yoga may help reduce stress, lower blood pressure and lower your heart rate. Moreover, it helps improve flexibility in muscles and joints and can reduce risk for many chronic ailments. And […]
It’s not only a good idea to take a full day off from work and enter into sacred time, it’s also a commandment — one of God’s Top Ten! Yet one survey showed only 10 percent of pastors keep it. Guideposts magazine offers these five suggestions for keeping the Sabbath! (Photo: redwinegums, Creative Commons)
Living in the glory of God’s creation within or near woodlands may actually be better for your brain and help you cope better with stress, according to a recent German study. Previous research has linked access to green space to longer lives, lower levels of aggression, and kids’ cognitive development. If you can’t live in the woods, at least […]
Too many church professionals burn out. Achieving a healthy work-life balance eventually comes down to personal responsibility and discipline. We must make the right choices, and our choices must be influenced by our attitudes and values. Behaviors that flow from our deeply held beliefs help us counter external pressures that keep us from taking care […]
“Depression lies to me. It is relentless. It tells me I will always feel this way, that I’m not deserving of help, that I am a burden, a waste — that my life is thoroughly hopeless,” Pastor Jason Chestnut writes in Sojourners. Ministry is hard, and the stresses clergy face can lead may people to […]
