Coronavirus exposed the social safety net for what it truly is: a good idea
While there are many grim aspects of coronavirus and the ensuing quarantine, we can not deny that some very positive developments are taking place. At the policy level, many of the ideas that were once deemed crazy are now being seen as viable. Suddenly even federal lawmakers who have long resisted Read More...
New photos of baby clouded leopards will surely get you a smile this morning
For all you big cat lovers on the Internet, we have a little something for you. In both Miami and Washington DC, zoos have announced the successful birthing of rare baby clouded leopards and cheetahs—and the photos are incredibly adorable. Both cheetahs and clouded leopards are considered Read More...
Some of the world’s most polluted cities are breathing fresh air once again
The screenshots began to circulate on Delhi WhatsApp groups last week, captioned with varying expressions of disbelief. Having checked the air quality index, something of a sadistic morning ritual among residents of India’s capital, most could not believe their eyes. Gone was the familiar Read More...
Research shows a daily “nature pill” can reduce stress levels
We at The Optimist Daily are big proponents of the healing nature of the outdoors. While exploring local natural spaces may not be as feasible now as it once was, you should still try to get outside every day. A new study has found that just 20 minutes outdoors can lower your stress levels. The Read More...
Why jute is one of the most promising alternatives we have to plastic
Even though we’re aware of the awful effects of plastic pollution, the detrimental environmental phenomenon continues today. Part of the problem is that plastic is such a durable, accessible material that can be used for a wide range of things such as shipping and packaging. Despite this, we know Read More...
OPTIMIST VIEW: Snapshots of Life in a Time of Coronavirus
BY KRISTY JANSEN AND AMELIA BUCKLEY KRISTY: Last Saturday I ventured out to the local Costco. My household was down to our last few rolls of toilet paper, and my 75 year old mother’s household - where she’s been in self-protective isolation with her two 70+ housemates for the past month - Read More...
You probably already have supplies on hand to make these natural egg dyes
Although Easter might look very different for many families this year, you can still celebrate the holiday from the comfort of your home. If you choose to take on some creative egg dying projects, COVID-19 may impact your access to egg dye. Here are some ways to make dye naturally at home with Read More...
NZ Prime Minister assures children Easter Bunny is an essential worker
Amidst the anxiety and uncertainty surrounding COVID-19, New Zealand’s Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern is assuring children across the country that the Easter Bunny is an essential worker and will be able to continue egg distribution on schedule this Sunday. The response came after reports Read More...
Engineers create a new ventilator prototype from breast pumps
The global shortage of ventilators needed to treat severe cases of COVID-19 has led companies like Dyson, Apple, and Ford to create innovative new products to meet hospital demands. An innovative team in Maryland is joining the effort and creating ventilator prototypes out of breast pumps. The Read More...
Why you should start intermittent fasting at night
In recent years, diet trends such as intermittent fasting have popularized the practice of delayed or restricted eating for many people looking to manage caloric intake. Still, many open to restructuring their schedules have the same question: When is the right time to avoid eating? The answer is Read More...