Did you know that the tension you feel when stressed might be doing more than just straining your mood? In fact, stress has an extensive reach that extends to your posture, body, and even the way your brain functions. This invisible force can weigh you down, altering the way you stand, move,...
Did you know your glasses do more than just improve your sight? When you slip on a pair of bifocals, use monovision contacts, or look through progressive lenses, you are not just correcting your vision – you are impacting your posture, influencing your brain, and subtly changing your...
Have you ever enjoyed the perfect harmony of a symphony, each instrument playing its part to create a beautiful and cohesive sound? Now, imagine a similar symphony playing out within you – where the instruments are your brain, body, and mind. These three are often looked at in isolation but...
Last week someone dropped off a giftbag, with a beautiful beach towel inside, in front of my house and the only label on it said: Thank you, Heike. I had no idea who put it there and why. I jumped around with joy, not just because of a new beach towel but because I felt genuinely appreciated. It...
Have you ever felt pain in an area of your body and nothing seems to help to alleviate it by addressing the area of discomfort? The reason might be that the source of the pain is a completely different area. This experience is a medical phenomenon known as referred pain. Contrary to what...
Imagine a powerful supercomputer, capable of making complex calculations, adapting to new challenges, and processing a vast array of emotions—all within a compact, three-pound package. That's your brain! It is an amazing organ responsible for shaping your life experiences, relationships,...
Did you know that visualization is a super powerful mental tool that can increase your performance (athletes and non-athletes) and also positively impacts your health and wellness? Imagine yourself running a marathon, feeling the wind in your face, your heart pounding, and the exhilaration of...
Close your eyes for a moment and consider the vibrant hues of a sunset, the amazing patterns of butterfly wings, or the emotional depth in the eyes of a loved one. Our world is a visual masterpiece, and our ability to perceive and appreciate its beauty is made possible by the remarkable functions...
The "Threat Bucket Model" is a concept in pain science that explains how the perception of pain is influenced by a variety of factors, including physical, psychological, and social factors. The model shows that pain is not simply a reflection of tissue damage, but rather a complex and subjective...
We all have felt it before: increased heart rate, rapid breathing, muscle tension, and sweaty palms – the signs of a stress response by the body. The stress response can also lead to a number of emotional symptoms, including anxiety, irritability, restlessness, and difficulty concentrating....
2020 and 2021 forced us to slow down: traveling was shut down, we saw a lot fewer places and at times we barely left the house. We saw fewer people and connected less. When reflecting on 2022, how did you do with exploring, challenging yourself, and stepping out of your comfort zone? Stepping out...
The importance of play for children is well documented. Did you know that research has shown that adults benefit from play as well? Play isn’t just about goofing off; it can also be an important means of reducing stress and contributing to overall well-being. Play releases endorphins, which...
