Quick Summary Every family develops unique communication habits shaped by unspoken rules, emotional dynamics, and individual roles, which influence how members express emotions and manage conflict. Common patterns include passive-aggressive communication, chronic avoidance, and top-down authority, which often persist into adulthood and affect other relationships. Unhealthy communication can lead to emotional challenges like anxiety and low self-worth, but recognizing your role in these patterns is a key step toward change. Shifting toward healthier communication involves clarifying your values, practicing new responses, setting boundaries, and seeking support with therapy. Every family has its own style of communication. These communication habits are…

Quick Summary Family bullying is repeated, intentional behavior—often disguised as “normal conflict”—that causes emotional harm and can come from siblings, parents, or other relatives. It’s often dismissed due to cultural norms, “family first” beliefs, or fear of speaking up, but family bullying deeply impacts self-worth, mental health, and trust in relationships. Coping includes setting and enforcing boundaries, reducing contact if needed, and seeking safe, supportive environments and help from a therapist. When bullying comes from within the family, it may be harder to recognize than bullying at school or work because it often happens behind closed doors. Family bullying might…

Key Takeaways Mindfulness is often seen as an individualistic practice, but traditionally it thrives in community settings. Group mindfulness training fosters connection and mutual support, which enhances individual practice. The sense of togetherness in a group helps individuals feel less isolated and more motivated to meditate regularly. Research suggests that community-based mindfulness could be more beneficial than solitary practices, yet this area needs further exploration. Creating supportive communities is crucial to successfully make meditation a habit for more people. The march of mindfulness into the mainstream seems to show no sign of slowing. On balance that’s a good thing. However,…

In this guided meditation, Kim Armstrong walks you through a simple practice to expand your capacity for gratitude in the everyday moments of life. We often think about gratitude as happening in response to “good” things, especially if those moments or events are also significant—a new job, a windfall, an amazing vacation. While these high points can easily spark positive emotion, a daily gratitude practice can go much deeper. For instance, what about moments that aren’t grand or overtly happy, but are small and emotionally neutral? What does it feel like to notice, take in, and consciously appreciate even the…