Despite the rapid growth of social media, a recent survey of 20,000 American adults found that nearly half reported feeling sometimes or always lonely. It’s a paradox. On the one hand, some adults have acquired hundreds of Facebook and Instagram friends and follow their every move. Some folks are receiving and sending texts to family and friends by the bucketload. But on the other hand, these same adults feel lonely. It doesn't make sense. Or does it? Read more about Overcoming loneliness in today's age

When my youngest daughter was little, I realized that she was a spirited child. She was strong-willed and highly reactive. When she got upset, she had no trouble letting us know. At the time, I read a wonderful book called “Raising Your Spirited Child” by Mary Sheedy Kurcinka which had many helpful hints. Her book was first published in 1991 and is still relevant today.

In the last 25 years, innovations in neuroscience have helped us better understand the physiological basis for what we now call emotional and behavioral dysregulation. Read more about Helping children with emotional and behavioral dysregulation

I recently attended a magnificent modern ballet performance by the Dance Theatre of Harlem. These dancers were amazing. They were able to move their bodies in ways that seemed impossible to me. And of course, like most professionals, they made it look easy. We were spellbound.

While I’m happy to be able to touch my toes, reach for cereal from a high shelf, carry heavy bags of groceries from my car into the house, and walk around Green Lake, I love seeing adults leap into the air. It reminds me of something that many of us don’t fully realize. Read more about Setting your mind to deal with setbacks

In the 21st century, both time and energy are in short supply. Many of us have plenty of food, maybe even too much. A lot of us have decent shelter, although it’s gotten more expensive. But, we struggle getting everything done, day to day and week to week. And after time with our kids, our partner, work, laundry, the yard, the house, shopping, cooking and cleaning, we are short on time and energy for ourselves. After all of those “to do’s,” we’re out of gas. Each of us only has so much vitality, both physical and mental. Some of this is constitutional. Read more about Managing your time and energy

Spring is here! The trees are leafing out with their palette of green. Spring flowers are blooming everywhere and fruit trees are wearing their multi-colored blossoms. It’s nature’s moment of renewal and celebration. Read more about Spring cleaning

Mary Jean is worried about her 15-year-old daughter, Sarah, who struggles in school. She’s often an indifferent student—her real passion is soccer. She isn’t the best player on the team, but she loves the sport and puts huge effort into every practice. She gets along well with the rest of her team, works hard, always shows up, and doesn't give up when the going gets tough. She listens to her coach. And while she’s a strong competitor, and would love to have more time on the playing field, she doesn't complain when it’s her turn to sit on the bench. Read more about The value of team sports