A love of interior decoration has followed me throughout my life. The younger version of myself spent afternoons helping my mom re-decorate our home or sometimes I surprised her by re-arranging the living room and television room, and most often, my bedroom. Furniture moved from one wall to another. Pillows shifted. New colors appeared and
From department stores placing holiday decorations on display by September to companies reminding you to order that special gift by November, it is no wonder the holiday season creates a wealth of stress. To ensure an experience of gusto during this time of year, below are a few tips on how to stay zen from
Classical music carries a quiet power that reaches beyond melodies and movement. Some may experience a shift in their body when they hear the violin or the robust sound of the cello. Next time you are at the symphony or listening to classical music, notice how your body changes at certain melodies and instruments, it
There is something magical about the kitchen and how it radiates our memories and moments. The aroma of garlic simmering in olive oil brings a sense of comfort while the smell of warm cookies directs my thoughts back to childhood. The kitchen becomes a sanctuary where we recall life moments and take joy in the
There is a quiet strength that comes from learning to pause. The pace of life keeps asking for more, leaving little room to simply stop and breathe. Yet I have learned that stillness is not a luxury. Stillness is a necessity. When I slow down, I begin to notice the rhythm of my breath, the
There is a sense of joy I feel when my home is organized and open. The act of clearing a space, wiping down a counter, or folding fresh linens feels almost meditative. A neat home allows the mind to rest. When my surroundings are balanced, my thoughts seem lighter and my energy feels clearer. I
When I think about wellness, I often return to the power of music. Music reaches us in ways that words sometimes cannot. Music soothes, inspires, and heals. For me, classical music, especially when performed live by a symphony, carries an energy that feels both grounding and uplifting. During my time of academic research and volunteering
Stress sneaks into all of our lives, sometimes without us even realizing it. For me, stress can show up on the days when my calendar feels too full or when I am pulled in many directions between family, work, and school. Over the years, I have learned that there are small, realistic steps I can
October always feels like a fresh chapter. The air cools, leaves begin to change, and new rhythms settle in. For me, October wellness means slowing down just enough to notice the beauty around me and making small rituals that keep life balanced. One of my favorite traditions is painting pumpkins with my family. The laughter,
Gratitude holds quiet power: a gentle reflection of self-care. This personal gift helps us grow and thrive, especially during challenging times. For me, gratitude started showing up in the smallest of ways. A sip of warm tea on a cool morning. The weight of my cat, Snowflake, curled up by my side. Hearing my children
The first notes of music often capture a child in ways words cannot. A gentle melody can quiet restless thoughts, while a playful rhythm can spark joy and movement. When children begin to explore music, whether by listening or by learning an instrument, they step into a mindful practice that strengthens attention, patience, and creativity.
Mindfulness is more than a quiet practice. Mindfulness is a way of being that invites presence, creativity, and compassion. For children, the arts provide a natural doorway into this state of awareness. When a child sings, paints, dances, or acts, the child becomes fully immersed in the moment, exploring self-expression and learning how to connect