Two recent articles highlight research on some simple strategies for self-care that can reduce stress and help us be more focused, balanced and emotionally healthy.

The first article is about the practice of gratitude. According to the article, "Scientists have discovered that feelings of gratitude can actually change your brain. Feeling gratitude can also be a great tool for overcoming depression and anxiety." Check out the full article about a practice of gratitude and how it can help the heart and brain at: 

https://www.collective-evolution.com/2019/02/14/scientists-show-how-gratitude-literally-alters-the-human-heart-molecular-structure-of-the-brain/

The second article touts the many benefits of mindful, controlled breathing, including calming our brains, regulating blood pressure, tapping into the brain's emotional control regions, improving memory, boosting the immune system, and improving energy metabolism. Here's a link to the full article: 

https://www.forbes.com/sites/daviddisalvo/2017/11/29/how-breathing-calms-your-brain-and-other-science-based-benefits-of-controlled-breathing/