I have recently become interested in earthing or grounding. It is the practice of touching the earth or nature with our skin. It has been found to have a myriad of benefits- improves sleep, lower cortisol, calms the nervous system, reduces inflammation and pain, lowers heart rate, promotes circulation, boosts mood and increases energy. The easiest method is to walk barefoot on natural surfaces like grass, sand, or dirt. Science has shown the beach and ocean to have the most impact. For many of us, feet in the dirt will have to do. My idea, initiate some family activities that include bare feet and the ground and see what happens. Let us know how connection to the earth helps you.

You've probably given this excuse for a myriad of things you "should" be doing. Things that might be on your list of I "should" be doing, but I'm too busy: 1. Exercising 2. Going on dates with my spouse 3. Hanging out with the kids (can take them on dates too) 4. Meditating 5. Learning a new skill- language, musical instrument etc. As I shared on a recent post, I have re-committed to exercising. It has been going great. I am really starting to feel better. However, I have definitely used the excuse of being too busy to workout. That's not exactly accurate. It's true that I'm busy, but aren't we all. And, some people workout everyday. Moreover, some of them get up at 5 a.m. so they have the "time." Therefore, it is generally more accurate to say, I'm not working out because it's not a priority. Now, it is a priority and I find the time. Tell us what you're working on and what you are committing to improve. Sharing your goals can create some pressure as you become accountable to others. So...what are going to start doing (from the list above or from your own list) or do more consistently (be specific)? We will check-in with you and encourage you.

1. What was your relationship like with your parents when growing up? 2. What messages do you remember hearing from them (the good ones and the bad ones)? 3. How do these messages impact you now? 4. What did you have to do to get your parent's time, attention or connection? 5. Are you still doing the things that got your parent's attention? Please share some of your thoughts about the above questions with us.

When you are angry, mad, sad, disappointed...how do you move forward? We can change our state of mind, which impacts our emotional well-being being through GRATITUDE.

I have been working out (again) for about 2 weeks. I am 52 now and I want to be around a long time for the grandchildren I don't have yet (and for my kids and my wife). I have really noticed some changes in my speed, flexibility and strength in the past year. For one, my job (family therapist) has me sitting most of the day. Moreover, inactivity has a more significant impact on a 5th decade body. What or who motivates you to take good care of yourself? Or, do you need some motivation from the community? Let us know.