As we start to better understand the human psyche and learn more about how the brain processes information, we have learned that brain cells can be regenerated. It takes 21 days to solidify a habit. When you think about negative things, you are creating neural pathways to keep the negative thoughts productive in your life.... Continue Reading →
Coping with Uncertainty
Hello, I am new here at Olive Branch Counseling Associates. I have the privilege to conduct my undergrad internship here and learn from whom I believe are the best counselors in the area. I currently attend Trinity Christian College in Palos Heights as an accelerated senior. If you have not heard, my beloved College is... Continue Reading →
Mental Health Benefits of Donating: How Giving Back Supports Emotional Well-Being
The holiday season often highlights the spirit of gift-giving to our loved ones. The holiday season is also a good time to tap into the benefits of donating, which extend far beyond the season. Whether it is contributing to a local charity, church, or community organization, giving back has a positive impact on mental and... Continue Reading →
From Chaos to Calm: Creating a Grounding Toolkit to Relieve Stress and Anxiety
In the hustle and bustle of daily life, we often forget to pause and process the overwhelming emotions and thoughts that build up. This is where grounding techniques can be incredibly helpful for our overall well-being. By taking a moment to reconnect with the present, we can step away from anxious thoughts and regain sense... Continue Reading →
Autumn Mindfulness: Gratitude and Reflection
As we transition into fall, it is the perfect season to slow down and savor life’s little pleasures. Sip a warm cup of tea or pumpkin-spiced coffee while wrapped in a cozy blanket, delight in season treats like maple butter or baked apples, and step outside to take in the beauty of autumn, notice the... Continue Reading →
The Power of Stillness and Silence
When living life day-to-day, it is easy to get caught up in responsibilities and the busyness of the world. Sometimes it is necessary to sit still and give yourself a moment of peace. The practice of meditation and mindfulness is often overlooked. People dismiss its effectiveness because they don’t make time for it, they get... Continue Reading →
Get Outside!
We did it! We survived the dreadful days of winter and are nearing the end of the unpredictable midwestern spring. It is almost summer! The clouds are parting, and the sun is shining bright. Nature is inviting us to step outside, soak in the sunshine, and reconnect with the world around us. Instead of rushing... Continue Reading →
Mindfulness Meditation
In today’s busy and fast-paced world, it is easy to get caught up in responsibilities, distractions, and stress. We often find ourselves dwelling on the past or worrying about the future, causing us to miss the peace in the present moment. Mindfulness meditation is a powerful practice that helps us tune into the here and... Continue Reading →
Exercising Your Attention Span
Current sources of entertainment overload our cognitive functions of stimulation and attention span. Because we have smart phones and social media, immediate mental stimulation is constantly at our fingertips. This has a deteriorating impact on the human attention span. Less and less are we actually exercising our minds to find stimulation. Our brains are becoming... Continue Reading →
