kbarnes 
I know. This time of year, everyone is all obsessed about exercise and trying the shed those holiday buffet pounds and all of my fellow writers are urging you to hit the gym. I look at exercise in a slightly different way: As a stress management tool. It is perhaps the most effective stress buster … Read more
Many years ago, a spiritual teacher gave me what seemed like a simple assignment: Do nothing for five minutes a day. That’s it. Do nothing. It was the most difficult assignment I’ve ever had. It didn’t mean to meditate or look at the flowers in the garden or count my breaths or take a nap … Read more
This pungent spice is a staple in every kitchen cabinet. It’s a holiday favorite and an every day treat. But most of us don’t know that it can also help control blood sugar, boost memory, knock out infections and even prevent cancer. We all need more—and it’s tasty, too! Of course, I’m talking about cinnamon. … Read more
Yes, indeed. I am probably crazy. But I did it on New Year’s Day. (See attached photo for proof). I am a die-hard swimmer. Swimming soothes my soul. I admit that soul soothing generally takes place on balmy summer days, but my swimming addiction reached a new level this year when we bought a lot … Read more
It’s not spring? Really? We’re battening down the hatches for an upcoming winter storm, but my allergies are kicking in like crazy. This is the first year I’ve had trouble with winter allergies beyond the pollen season. But then, pollen isn’t the only cause of the sniffling, sneezing, coughing and itchy, watery eyes that go … Read more
As the festive cheer of the holiday season unfolds, our days often become a whirlwind of activities and commitments. From preparing lavish meals and decorating our homes to shopping for the perfect gifts and attending a myriad of social gatherings, this time of year can feel like a non-stop hustle. Amidst the twinkling lights and … Read more
Note from Kathleen: This piece has become an annual favorite. Please seek help if you feel like your depression is out of control. The new National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline number is 988. I love you all! Once upon a time when I was working for a newspaper, my editor had a brilliant idea: I … Read more
In the holiday rush, it’s hard to step back and take a moment to smell the roses. I love finding the time to sit back with a cup of tea and feel grateful for friends, family and all of the abundance in my life. I’ve been doing a spiritual exercise centered on gratitude for many … Read more
Note from Kathleen: April is stress awareness month, so I’m excerpting chapters from my book, Ten Best Ways to Manage Stress. Maybe you’ll find some inspiration here. It might seem like looking out for Number 1 means being selfish. That notion couldn’t be farther from the truth. I was recently on a plane trip and … Read more
The holidays are here and it seems they are inevitably accompanied by packing on a few pounds. This doesn’t have to be the case if you follow a few very simple rules. Food should be pleasurable, but for many of us, the “stop” mechanism is broken. What’s wrong with a little cream puff or Swedish … Read more