As clinical psychologist Nicole Beurkens, Ph.D., tells mbg, “Giving gifts lets the receiver know you’re thinking about and care for them, which strengthens the emotional bond. This is beneficial in all relationships, but especially where distance is an issue because it’s much easier to feel disconnected over time.” She adds that it also certainly doesn’t hurt to have gifts around that remind you of them. “Having items your partner has given you in your immediate physical environment provides opportunities to think of them, and to be reminded of your connection with them,” she explains....

In fact, the average daily intake of fiber is so low, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Dietary Guidelines considers it a public health concern. But why is fiber so important, and how can you make sure you’re getting enough? It has also been proven to reduce the body’s blood sugar response to certain foods, increase mineral absorption, and improve feelings of satiety. Plus, it helps your digestion run smoothly....

It only makes sense that she’s a supporter of going keto, as she personally follows a keto diet and believes it’s actually a natural way of eating. “Breastfed babies are keto; even in utero, babies use ketones for survival,” she notes on this episode of the mindbodygreen podcast. She believes keto is an important eating plan for combatting anxiety, taming inflammation, and balancing blood sugar—all important topics we discuss during this episode....

That said, I’ll give you the good news. Herbs are powerful, multi-taskers. They work for you on many levels: herbs can help fight fatigue, treat overgrowth in your GI tract, boost your metabolism, and add flavor to your foods so that they are more interesting (and you won’t desire to eat as much in order to be satisfied). Firstly, with age your metabolic rate drops. This is just the truth of the matter....

I’d lost my menstrual cycle and was dealing with reactive hypoglycemia, which means that shortly after eating I would get a drop in blood sugar that would leave me shaky, sweaty, nauseous and reaching for more food. I also struggled with digestive issues, dry skin, mood issues, and insomnia. I ending up booking an appointment with a naturopath to get a second opinion. This is when I learned about the female athlete triad, adrenal fatigue and hypothalamic amenorrhea....

I’d lost my menstrual cycle and was dealing with reactive hypoglycemia, which means that shortly after eating I would get a drop in blood sugar that would leave me shaky, sweaty, nauseous and reaching for more food. I also struggled with digestive issues, dry skin, mood issues, and insomnia. I ending up booking an appointment with a naturopath to get a second opinion. This is when I learned about the female athlete triad, adrenal fatigue and hypothalamic amenorrhea....

So what’s the “how” that makes the difference? Simple: an authentic connection to oneself. Unfortunately, most people don’t take the time to get to know themselves. It’s hard work, no doubt, but avoiding this journey automatically creates disconnection in your life—not only from yourself but from others, too. To develop more inner connection, start with a journal practice, writing down your thoughts and feelings. Answer questions such as Who am I?...