Sunday, November 30, 2008

Pursuing Goals, Not Goods is Key to Happiness

According to Ed Diener, a psychology professor at the University of Illinois, Champaign, true happiness lies in the pursuit of deeply held goals, not in fleeting pleasures or possessions. It means making a conscious decision to be resilient, adjusting and finding happiness in the face of adversity.

Diener is the co-author, with his son, Robert Biswas-Diener, of the new book, "Happiness: Unlocking the Mysteries of Psychological Wealth."

Positive psychology is a movement which rejects the model of disease and dysfunction, focusing instead on emotional hardiness.

Sunday, November 9, 2008

Yoga May Ease Menopausal Symptoms

A pilot study of the effects of 10 weeks of yoga practice on 11 midlife women's menopausal symptoms was conducted at the University of Washington in Seattle. Qualitative analysis of participants' interviews provided information not captured in quantitative measures. The women reported feeling relaxed and physically better after yoga class. Many viewed yoga as a skill they could incorporate into daily life to reduce stress and manage their menopausal symptoms. The class setting provided an opportunity for individualized instruction, peer interaction, and a structured time for self-care. Factors that made it more challenging to practice yoga at home included responsibilities to others as well as limited time, space, and energy. Women suggested providing a more flexible class schedule, increasing peer support, and providing more instruction on developing a home practice. This information will be incorporated into plans for future studies.