Nicky Vanvalkenburgh
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Articles by Nicky Vanvalkenburgh
January 28, 2009
The love bond between parent and child is a driving force in our lives. It is so powerful that our children will spend the rest of their lives looking for it in someone else. Written for mothers, this thought-provoking article encourages you to nuture your parent-child relationship.
January 28, 2009
Research shows that curling the corners of our mouth in a "mock smile" creates a positive biological response in the body. Yes, we can actually change the way we feel by smiling.
January 28, 2009
People are kitchen appliances. We need to reconnect to our natural state of being-- that's where our power is. Our natural state is not anxious, stressed out, or persistent, heightened alert. We should be calm, relaxed, easy-going and happy. Check out this article that encourages you to take some time out for yourself.
January 28, 2009
Your life is like a yo-yo, going back and forth, up and down. It's just a matter of time before your string gets kinked up. This short article encourages you to untwist, relax and unwind... so you can feel like yourself again.
January 28, 2009
Did you know that it's impossible to be stressed out and relaxed at the same time?
Neither can you be happy and sad at the same time. Of course, you can go back and forth, like an oscillating fan. This article encourages you to consider what happens when you focus our energy on one predominant emotion.
January 28, 2009
You can activate your body's "rest-and-digest" response by excercising, relaxing deeply or engaging in a calming activity. You're essentially lowering your stress by quietting the brain. You're also activating brain regions associated with happiness and well-being, as "feel-good" endorphins are released in the body.
January 28, 2009
This short article offers nine practical suggestions for what to do if you can't sleep. (If you'd like, you can edit to meet space requirements)
June 28, 2008
Have you ever wondered why kissing is such a powerful emotional and physical experience? Scientifically, the magical connection that you feel is really a matter of chemistry and electricity. And understanding the "science" behind kissing can make things even more exciting!
June 25, 2008
Discover what your doctor isn't telling you! A "chemical imbalance" may be nothing more than a lack of neurotransmitters (happy chemicals) in the brain.
May 16, 2008
If you´d like to step into fitness, here are 8 tips to get you on the box and stepping with success at the gym. (This article may be edited to meet space requirements)
May 03, 2008
When it comes to stress, awareness is the first step towards making a change. This article reveals ten telltale warning signs, and offers some tips for releasing tension and anxiety.
May 03, 2008
Did you know that emotions linger in your mind and body? You feel anxious and uptight. Your neck and shoulders feel tense. What can you do to relax and let go? Try Progressive relaxation. (Note: This article may be shortened, edited or modified to meet space requirements)
May 03, 2008
Have you ever started to do something, and then forgotten what it was? Perhaps you have a lot on your mind, but suddenly you've lost your focus. This article presents a simple recall strategy that involves recognizing stress, releasing your frustration, affirming your ability to remember, and then trying again to recall the information. (Note: This article may be shortened, edited or modified to meet space requirements)
May 03, 2008
What's the nicest things anyone has ever said to you? Take a moment to reflect and remember.
May 03, 2008
Remember the TV show "Kids Say The Darndest Things?" The premise of the show was asking children innocent questions, and discovering their answers to be far-fetched, creative, or downright cute. Sometimes, I play the same game with my kids. If you need a good laugh, hereīs a handful of insights from my boys (who are five and eight years old.) (Note: This article may be edited or shortened to meet space requirements)
May 03, 2008
Short self-help article about dealing with feelings of jealousy and envy. (This article may be shortened or edited for space purposes)
May 03, 2008
Have you been to a Body Pump class lately? It's a fun and challenging way to increase your muscle tone and definition, without the bulk.
May 03, 2008
Do you want to get married (or re-married) but donīt know how to go about it? Here are eight tips to help you find that special someone.
May 03, 2008
Are you looking to make a change in your life? Perhaps you want to lose weight, be more fit, tone and sculpt your body, or overcome health challenges. Remember the four D´s: Decide, Determine, Doing, and Don´t give up.
May 03, 2008
This short article encourages people to check out the indoor cycling classes at their local gym. (This article may be modified or personalized to meet your newspaper or magazine requirements)
May 03, 2008
This short, upbeat article offers three tips for dealing with difficult people in a constructive and empowering way.
May 03, 2008
Think of the people, events and circumstances that you're grateful for. So many wonderful things come to mind. Have you ever been grateful for hardships or challenges? Thatīs a tough one. (This article may be shortened or edited for space purposes)
May 03, 2008
Written for stay-at-home moms, this upbeat and light-hearted article offers encouragement and practical suggestions for keeping your wits with housework.
May 03, 2008
This short, chatty article offers six suggestions for meeting new people in unexpected places.
May 03, 2008
Have you ever had a light bulb experience with your children? You might call it a Eureka Moment. Itīs a time when you suddenly realize a personal change has taken place, for the better. Yes, youīre a better person now that you have children. Youīre more accepting, appreciative and affirming. Consider these three A+ values that my children have taught me.
May 03, 2008
Did you know that your brain is MORE POWERFUL than the world's smartest and fastest computer? Yes, it's true. In fact, the world's smartest computer is a SNAIL compared to your AMAZING brain! (Note: This article may be modified, edited or shortened to meet space requirements)
May 03, 2008
Every parent wants their child to be a winner in the game of life. This is exactly what videogames teach our children. Videogames equip kids at least five winning attitudes that they can take into the classroom, playground and home. (Article may be shortened or edited for space purposes)
May 03, 2008
This creative, tongue-in-cheek article suggests that having children is alot like gambling, and taking a risk. (This article may be shortened or modified to meet space requirements)
May 03, 2008
Written for stay-at-home moms, this article offers six suggestions for finding friends in unexpected places.
May 03, 2008
This article reflects upon a woman's personal transformation after giving birth. All five of your senses are heightened: Smell, sight, taste, touch and hearing. (This article may be shortened or modified for space purposes)
May 03, 2008
This short, motivational article encourages readers to have an attitude of expectancy as they pursue their dreams.
April 26, 2008
With a little practice, a "mental dress rehearsal" will give you a remarkable turnaround in your approach, feelings and attitude. You will find yourself calm, comfortable and relaxed in the most challenging circumstances.
April 26, 2008
Discover how you can overcome "analysis paralysis." When you're stuck in "critic mode," your brain can't make a shift from from input (examination) to output (action). It's time to get unstuck and unlocked, so you can move forward and get things done.
April 26, 2008
Gestalt psychology suggests that our brain is self-organizing. Our brain actually fills in the blanks, and Gestalt psychology suggests that our brain is self-organizing. Our brain actually fills in the blanks, and makes sense of incomplete information. . Discover how we use gestalt to make sense of everyday conversation.