By Brigit Atkin “The most precious gift we can offer others is our presence. When mindfulness embraces those we love, they will bloom like flowers.” —Thich Nhat Hanh Several years ago, I decided to break with tradition by taking our kids on a cruise during the holidays rather...
By Brigit Atkin Years ago, I had the privilege of working with at-risk students in a local middle school. It was one of the most challenging yet fulfilling jobs I’ve ever experienced. There was one boy in particular who will forever stand out in my mind as a student...
By Jasher Feellove Fear. The word triggers a physiological and emotional response. We may fear failure, or we may fear success. In either case, we fear the unknown. High performers refer to fear as stress. The media uses fear to garner attention: “If it bleeds, it leads.” To psychologists,...
By Wade Bohrn and Mindi Jensen of Tea Thyme Boutique Most of us know that drinking fresh tea is a healthier option than drinking soda and other sugary alternatives, but how can we keep it interesting and more enjoyable throughout the entire year? One trick is to buy quality...
By Richard K. Harder I recently heard a song performed by the internationally acclaimed Norwegian-born singer Sissel. The song that she sang so beautifully is titled “Slow Down, Be Still.” I address the theme and message of the song in this article—slow down, be still—as well as the invaluable attribute...
By Brigit Atkin What is a family? They are people who share the same blood and who gather to bond and enjoy each other’s company; people who love, care for, and look out for each other; people who confide in one another; people who are close enough to build...
By Liz Smith, Professional Certified Cuddle Therapist and Owner of Embrace SU In recent years, touch has been the center of many studies.The incredible physical and emotional health benefits of touch have been well-documented. Research is now showing that touch is a fundamental bonding, communication, and health factor for humans...
By Brigit Atkin I hate winter. I can’t take the cold, and I don’t like seeing the trees bare of their leaves. It seems like every year, I enjoy the wintry weather as it sets the stage for Christmas, but then, I want to skip right to summer. This year...
By Brigit Atkin I’m writing this article as one who is recovering from Perfectionism. One of the traits that stems from being a perfectionist is adhering to the misguided notion that one has to do everything on one’s own, never asking for help. We live in a world where...
“Cuddle Therapy? Nope, I have never heard of that. It sounds interesting though.” These are words I have grown very familiar with over the past few months as I have started my journey as a certified cuddle therapist. I have also grown accustomed to awkward silences, smirks, disapproving looks, giggles...
