Lifestyle
Alongside taking care of other people and the planet, make sure you take good care of yourself. The Lifestyle section at the Optimist Daily has solutions for everyday wellbeing on topics like food, beauty, fashion, and the latest trends. Curious about caring for houseplants, eating plant-based, or parenting tips? It’s all in there.
USDA implements new school meal standards to reduce added sugars
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced significant changes to school meal laws, including the first time added sugars will be banned on the nation's school menus. The new standards also aim to reduce sodium consumption as part of a larger push to improve the nutritional Read More...
It’s kitten season! How to help overwhelmed shelters manage the influx of kitties right meow
Kitten season has arrived, bringing with it an irresistible wave of feline cuteness. However, behind the scenes, animal rescues and shelters are dealing with an influx of pregnant cats and their litters, putting a strain on their already limited resources. According to Stephanie Filer, executive Read More...
The science behind laughter in babies and children
Children's laughter is frequently interpreted as a simple display of joy, but scientific research reveals a deeper meaning lies beyond the surface. Contrary to popular assumption, children's laughter (along with adults’) is more than just a sign of happiness; it represents a complex interplay of Read More...
Making windows bird-friendly: a crash course on protecting our feathered friends
In 1990, Michael Mesure was on the way to a wildlife rehabilitation center. Among his passengers was a common yellowthroat, a colorful warbler that had collided with a window. Mesure's heart fell as he saw the tiny bird struggle for survival. Despite the pain, an unexpected moment of beauty Read More...
Good old-fashioned printed text outshines screens for cognitive engagement in young readers
In today's digital landscape, the draw of screens is clear, especially among the youngest members of society. But, what does this switch-up mean for children's developing brains? Recent research published in the journal PLOS ONE investigates the neurological ramifications of reading on screens Read More...
How the Sounds Right project brings harmony to environmental protection and musicÂ
In the realm of music, inspiration can strike from the most unexpected sources. From the soft rustle of leaves to the grand roar of a waterfall, nature's symphony has long served as the backdrop for many melodies. Take the hit "Blackbird" by The Beatles—halfway through the track the sweet sound Read More...
Coffee vs. tea: which caffeine source reigns supreme for health and vitality?
For many people, coffee is more than simply a morning habit; it's an integral component of their daily lives. But is this really the best method to get your caffeine fix? Dr. Kaustubh Dabhadkar, a preventive cardiologist from Charlotte, North Carolina, sheds light on the subject, showing the Read More...
Attention lazy gardeners! Why doing less can boost butterfly populations in your garden
A recent scientific study published in the journal Science of the Total Environment demonstrates that a small change in lawn maintenance habits can have a significant impact on butterfly populations, providing hope for conservation efforts and helpful information for gardeners who want to help Read More...
How citizen scientists are driving tangible change in Australia
Citizen science has evolved as a formidable force in conservation, propelled by regular people's passion and dedication to conserving our planet's irreplaceable ecosystems. Citizen scientists are redefining the story of environmental stewardship one observation at a time, thanks to collaborative Read More...
The ancient origins of your 600,000 year old cuppa joe
Did you realize that the beans that comprise your morning cup of coffee date back 600,000 years? Scientists have discovered the ancient origins of Coffea arabica, the popular coffee plant that fills millions of cups worldwide. The global takeover of Arabica coffee With its well-known sweet Read More...