• “Anxiety and Hope in Japanese Art,” on Display at the MetAn exploration of Japanese art around death, suffering and hope

    “Anxiety and Hope in Japanese Art,” on Display at the Met
    An exploration of Japanese art around death, suffering and hope

    Currently on display at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, the exhibit “Anxiety and Hope in Japanese Art,” offers a unique look at how Japanese art has intertwined grief and suffering with ideas about rebirth. Combining sacred objects from early Japan, medieval painted scrolls, modern woodblock prints, and garments, the exhibit covers a…

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  • A Good Attitude Might Just be the Key to a Longer LifeStudies show that optimism may actually extend the human lifespan

    A Good Attitude Might Just be the Key to a Longer Life
    Studies show that optimism may actually extend the human lifespan

    Most people want a longer life. They take supplements, herbs, and engage in special workout routines and diets, but what if it were much more simple? What if you could extend your life simply by having a good attitude?

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  • “Many Rivers to Cross”A moving and expressive song of hardship and struggle

    “Many Rivers to Cross”
    A moving and expressive song of hardship and struggle

    The grandfather of reggae singer Jimmy Cliff wrote “Many Rivers To Cross” at the mere age of 21, and to this day, it is still considered one of the most soulful songs of his decades-long career. The heartbreaking lyrics relay much despair and oppression, ultimately giving rise to hope. It is a fitting melody to…

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  • What Can Menopause in Whales Teach Us About Aging?Scientists have recently discovered a possible evolutionary purpose for menopause

    What Can Menopause in Whales Teach Us About Aging?
    Scientists have recently discovered a possible evolutionary purpose for menopause

    Menopause has rarely been shown to occur in animals outside the human species – including toothed whales and wild chimpanzees. A new study, published in the journal Nature, suggests that menopause in toothed whales boosts intergenerational help, meaning grandmothers have an ability to care for their offspring’s children without creating competition – and that the…

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  • Dealing With the Hidden Stress of Being a Funeral Director (Interview)An interview with Kim Zavrotny, U.S. Director of Funeral Professionals Peer Support

    Dealing With the Hidden Stress of Being a Funeral Director (Interview)
    An interview with Kim Zavrotny, U.S. Director of Funeral Professionals Peer Support

    Kim Zavrotny has seen a lot of changes in the funeral business in her 32-year career, some of which have made the work more challenging. She’s currently a Senior Funeral Director with McComas Family Funeral Homes in Abingdon, Maryland, a mid-sized business handling around 800 funerals a year. She’s also the U.S. Director of Funeral Professionals…

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  • “Good Grief”A film marking Levy’s first departure from comedy, offering valuable insight into the messiness of grief

    “Good Grief”
    A film marking Levy’s first departure from comedy, offering valuable insight into the messiness of grief

    The opening scene of “Good Grief” aptly sets the stage for Daniel Levy’s directorial film debut, in that it features rich visuals and warm vibes. But the film ultimately lacks the depth we’re left desperately craving by the end of the film.  “Good Grief” was written, directed, and produced by Levy, who also stars in…

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  • Our Monthly Tip: Host a Memorial HikeHonor a loved one's connection to nature by hiking in their memory

    Our Monthly Tip: Host a Memorial Hike
    Honor a loved one’s connection to nature by hiking in their memory

    Our Tip of the Month If your loved one was an avid lover of the outdoors or had a favorite trail, consider planning a memorial hike in their honor. This can be incorporated into, or replace, a celebration of life soon after the death, and could even culminate in an ash-scattering ceremony somewhere at the…

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  • Revolutionizing Parkinson’s Care: A New Noninvasive Wearable DeviceHow harnessing focused vibrations can be used to treat Parkinson's motor symptoms

    Revolutionizing Parkinson’s Care: A New Noninvasive Wearable Device
    How harnessing focused vibrations can be used to treat Parkinson’s motor symptoms

    A groundbreaking wearable device for Parkinson’s disease developed by the UK-based medical device company Charco Neurotech offers a promising non-invasive solution for individuals living with the disease. Dubbed the CUE1, this compact circular device operates by emitting high-frequency vibrations. Users affix the device to their sternum using medical tape, providing a non-invasive treatment that combines…

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  • HCA Hospitals Accused of Pushing Patients Toward Hospice To Improve Mortality MetricsAn investigative report by NBC News reveals alarming statistics in end-of-life-care

    HCA Hospitals Accused of Pushing Patients Toward Hospice To Improve Mortality Metrics
    An investigative report by NBC News reveals alarming statistics in end-of-life-care

    Hospice and palliative care are growing aspects of the healthcare system, which is typically a good thing: It means that more people have come to recognize the importance of access to quality end-of-life care. Unfortunately, reports have come to light showing that one of the nation’s largest hospital chains, HCA Healthcare, is allegedly abusing the…

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