“Do not spoil what you have by desiring what you have not; remember that what you now have was once among the things you only hoped for.” ~ Epicurus

This ancient wisdom from Epicurus rings true even in our modern, materialistic world.

A relentless focus on what you want—but don’t currently have—makes it difficult to appreciate what you already possess. Psychological research backs this up, showing that materialistic people are often more depressed and unsatisfied with life.

A recent study revealed that people who go to the gym with friends boost their attendance by 35% compared to solo gym-goers.

While this might seem intuitive, it's surprising that 80% of people prefer to work out alone.

Why?

They believe that coordinating schedules with a friend adds an unnecessary hassle. Let’s jump rope in!

Ever wondered how to make people instantly like you? It turns out that the secret might be simpler than you think.

Research reveals that smiling is one of the best ways to win people over.

But here’s the kicker: it has to be a real smile, what psychologists call a ‘Duchenne smile.’

What’s so special about a Duchene smile?

A recent study reveals the social and emotional upheavals that accompany the physical symptoms of withdrawing from these medications.

As anyone who has tried to stop antidepressants knows, the process isn't always smooth sailing.

Anxiety, dizziness, headaches, and nausea are just the tip of the iceberg. The study found that these physical symptoms are often accompanied by social and emotional difficulties.

Recent research reveals a fascinating trend: the cognitive abilities of older generations are improving compared to younger ones.

Evidence from 60 studies suggests that older adults today have better cognitive skills than their grandparents did at the same age.

Meanwhile, younger people's cognitive abilities have shown little improvement over recent decades.

Let's dive into why this is happening, what it means for both the young and the old, and the broader implications of these findings.

Date nights foster an abiding sense of “couplehood.” The deliberate planning and pursuit of date night allow partners to choose one another—in front of friends and family.

Choose to read this post, and discover the science behind date night…

Research suggests that same-sex couples are gentler to each other when they fight (Gottman et al. 2003).

Gottman’s research tells us that lesbian couples and gay men use more humor and kindness when bringing up a disagreement, and they’re more positive as they engage in disagreement with one another. Here’s why…

Regular exercise doesn't just boost your health; it can also transform your personality for the better.

Research shows that moderate exercise can make people more extraverted and agreeable. Let’s jump in!

So, if your partner's a bit grumpy, maybe a jog around the block could help! Let's dive into how these habits are initiated and the benefits they bring.

How does lack of sleep affect relationships and social connections?

As a couples therapist, it's crucial to recognize how various aspects of health, including sleep, impact relationships.

Research shows that around half of people in developed societies do not get enough sleep. This lack of sleep does more than just affect individual well-being—it significantly impacts relationships and societal interactions.

Did you know that spending just 30 minutes a week in a park can significantly boost your mental health and lower your blood pressure?

Australian researchers have uncovered compelling evidence that frequent visits to green spaces are linked to better mental and physical health.

When it comes to sustaining a happy, long-term romantic relationship, many factors come into play – mutual respect, shared values, open communication, and of course, love and attraction.

But one area that often gets overlooked, despite being an essential component of a couple’s long-term success and mental wellbeing, is financial compatibility.

Money matters can make or break a relationship, especially when partners come from different socioeconomic backgrounds or have vastly different financial habits, goals, and expectations.

Did you know that singing in a choir for just one hour can significantly improve your mood, reduce stress, and even enhance your immune system?

According to a study, this uplifting activity offers numerous psychological and physical health benefits, particularly for those affected by cancer.