Mind & Mood Archive

Forest bathing, which originated in Japan, means spending time in the woods or other natural setting, immersed in the surrounding sights, sounds, and smells. Research suggests that the practice may reduce the harmful health effects of stress.

Gray divorce—which involves couples ages 50 and older ending their marriage—has become more common over the past 30 years. While divorce increases the odds of mental and physical health problems at any age, older adults face heightened health risks during a stage when many people already have chronic conditions.

Many people with fibromyalgia also struggle with mood changes and extra weight. Research suggests links, but which comes first remains unclear.

Explore what doctors know about Bell’s palsy triggers, from stress to viral infections and diabetes, and why pinpointing a cause is tricky

Tai chi exercises combine slow, flowing movements with deep breathing and guided imagery. The practice can help promote relaxation and reduce the harmful effects of stress, which include high blood pressure and related cardiovascular problems.

What could you do today to feel happier? Three strategies drawn from positive psychology, a field that aims to improve moods and lives, may help.

Bald spots or thinning hair in pre‑teen boys can happen for a number of reasons. These include scalp infections, tight hairstyles, immune conditions, or stress.

Practicing mindfulness is a healthier, more sustainable source of energy and focus than relying on caffeine or sugar. This video shows you how to practice mindfulness by paying attention to breathing, physical sensations, and everyday activities in the present moment without judgment.

Communicating with someone with dementia can be tricky, since their ability to understand others and express themselves fluctuates and declines. Certain communication strategies can help smooth interactions between caregivers and dementia patients. They include being an active listener, avoiding confrontation, agreeing with the patient's reality, removing distractions, using shorter sentences and smaller words, asking yes-or-no questions, using written lists and schedules, and incorporating touch.

Caring for a person with dementia is physically, emotionally, logistically, and financially demanding. Caregivers can benefit from numerous services, such as caregiver support groups; respite care; and dementia care navigators, such as the local Area Agency on Aging (which can provide a long list of resources) or a local hospital dementia care program. It can also help to speak to doctors about consolidating appointments for the person with dementia and to reach out to family and friends to ask for assistance.