It’s always struck me how many of the world’s greatest artists carried heavy shadows. Charles Schulz, creator of Peanuts, often battled depression. Hemingway’s brilliance came with darkness that eventually swallowed him. Beethoven poured both fury and beauty into his music while fighting deafness and despair. And that list could stretch for pages, featuring writers, painters,Continue reading “Why the Creative Mind Both Thrives and Suffers”
Tag Archives: mental health
The Perils of Living In A Basement Apartment
Many people, including me, have lived in basement apartments at one time or another. And with people seeking second incomes in these tough times, several people are renovating their basements to generate a few extra bucks. If you are looking for a place to stay, I can say from experience: avoid a basement, if possible,Continue reading “The Perils of Living In A Basement Apartment”
Addressing the Complexities of Self-Sabotage
Self-sabotage is a complex behavior, often rooted in underlying psychological, emotional, or behavioral patterns. As one who has sometimes engaged in this behavior, sometimes without realizing it, I wanted to look at how it can be overcome or significantly reduced so it doesn’t destroy any progress achieved and create a downward spiral. Here are someContinue reading “Addressing the Complexities of Self-Sabotage”
Coping with Early Darkness in Winter
As the days grow shorter and winter settles in, the early onset of darkness can greatly impact our mental and physical well-being. For many – including me – the abrupt end of daylight in the late afternoon brings challenges ranging from disrupted routines to seasonal mood shifts. However, with intentional strategies, embracing this seasonal changeContinue reading “Coping with Early Darkness in Winter”
How Rainy and Overcast Days Affect Mood and Energy Levels
Rainy, overcast days often make people feel out of it and even irritable due to a complex interplay of physiological, psychological, and environmental factors. I’m one of those who crave sunlight. A day or two of rainy weather is fine, but when it extends more than that, I feel like I am walking through lifeContinue reading “How Rainy and Overcast Days Affect Mood and Energy Levels”
Physical, Psychological, and Social Benefits of Living Near Water
I recently moved from a concrete jungle of a city to a small town by the water, approximately three hours northeast of where I was. The area is known as The Kawarthas and with its 250+ lakes and rivers in the vicinity, it is an outdoor paradise – even in winter. In living here nearlyContinue reading “Physical, Psychological, and Social Benefits of Living Near Water”
The Vital Importance of Sleep: Nurturing Mind, Body, and Soul
When I was younger, a badge of honor was to run on little sleep – five hours a night – and brag about it to my friends. I took caffeine pills and washed them down with strong cups of coffee to keep going during final exams in high school and college. The inevitable headache whenContinue reading “The Vital Importance of Sleep: Nurturing Mind, Body, and Soul”
Why Cutting Toxic People Out of Your Life Is Sometimes Necessary
Life is filled with relationships; many can be a source of joy, support, and growth. However, not all relationships are healthy. Despite repeated efforts to be kind, accommodating, and understanding, some people can drain your energy, damage your self-esteem, and hinder your personal growth. These toxic people make it difficult to maintain your emotional well-being.Continue reading “Why Cutting Toxic People Out of Your Life Is Sometimes Necessary”
John Berkovich Talks 