Mindfulness changes the way we respond to things by strengthening the prefrontal cortex. Different types of practices activate our thinking centers in different ways, similar to muscle use with exercise. No matter the course, all forms of mindfulness practice strengthen the attentional circuits and reduce fight-or-flight responses.

Few of us have been taught how to sit with our thoughts and feelings. As a result we are vulnerable to getting hooked and triggered. Awareness, attention and curiosity allow us to take control of our thinking and respond by choice instead of reactive habit.…

Much of life is spent trying to manage our self-images. Closely related to our self-images are our identities – how we define ourselves according to the roles we play. Both our self-images and our identities become part of the stories we spin about ourselves.

“Since my house burnt down, I now own a better view Of the rising moon.” – Basho I’ve been on a quest to make my world small. It all started when I went big. I had a tiny house before they were vogue because it…

I’m enjoying Alain de Botton’s latest novel, The Course of Love. He tells the story of love, wanting to tell the whole story – instead of the happy ending, where most leave off. His narrative is intertwined with bits of philosophical wonderings and notes of genius.…

Before heading off to work, I got a call from a local reporter asking for my opinion on Pokemon Go! The fact that I never owned a cell phone didn’t seem to phase her. So, I took a deep breath and asked for time to…

Being satisfied with what we already have is a magical golden key to being alive in a full, unrestricted, and inspired way. – Pema Chödrön We cannot exile undesirable parts of ourselves without dulling the rest. That’s because our juiciness and aliveness is all mixed…

Stand strong. Surround yourself with people who accept you fiercely while compassionately challenging your edge. Likewise, be a person who honors fear while lovingly encouraging beyond it.

I used to pride myself in knowing the only shopping I enjoyed was for produce. For me, a day at the Farmer’s Market was and is nothing short of a spiritual experience, while going to the mall is like a visit to the Inferno. That…

“The willingness to accept responsibility for one’s own life is the source from which self-respect springs.” – Joan Didion When asked if people were doing the best they can, a mentor once said: “I don’t know. All I know is that my life is better…