6 trends that define the future of health and wellness–World Economic Forum, February 15, 2022
The pandemic has made people more health conscious and willing to embrace wellness (when they can afford it). A recent IPSOS survey sheds interesting light on how wellbeing will change in a post-COVID world and the trends that will impact it: (1) an aging population; (2) more virtual healthcare; (3) customized personal diets; (4) removing mental-health taboos; (5) environmental concerns; and (6) technology.

Awe: The ‘little earthquake’ that could free your mind– BBC Futures, January 6, 2022
Intentionally seeking a sense of awe can improve memory, boost creativity and relieve anxious rumination. This article explains why the astonishing power of nature’s awe is limitless. Delve into it and appreciate its marvels without limitation: the science as to why this is so important is incontrovertible.  

How to want less–The Atlantic, February 8, 2022  
Satisfaction is one of the three core “macronutrients” of happiness (with enjoyment and meaning), and its slippery nature is one of the reasons happiness is so elusive. The “hedonic treadmill” principle (always wanting more) makes us fall into the trap of believing that success will fulfil us, but it’s an illusion: when and if we achieve conventional, acquisitive success, we can never get enough. The secret to satisfaction has nothing to do with achievement, money, or stuff. It is, rather, not to increase our “haves.” By managing what we want instead of what we have, we give ourselves a chance to lead more satisfied lives.

Harmful subsidies: why is the world still funding the destruction of nature?–The Guardian, February 17, 2022 
A new study finds that the world spends $1.8 trillion a year on government-funded subsidies that destroy the environment—in sectors such as agriculture, fossil fuels and water. Governments are incentivizing the annihilation of the natural world and reforming the system is as imperative as it is politically fraught.  

A Striking Stat

61% of people working from home are doing so because they want to, even though their office is open.  

Source: Pew Research Center report, 2/18/22