The On-Going Conversation

4-Legged Motivation

Ditch the Treadmill! Studies show that dogs provide motivation for a healthy lifestyle and dog owners more likely to take regular walks. Plus, dog owners are more likely to be active than in comparison to those who don't have a four-legged friend at home. 

One study even discovered that older individuals are more likely to take frequent walks if their companion is a canine, with 60 percent reaching federal criteria for moderate to vigorous exercise, according to a recent study. This leads one to question the benefits of having a dog as a pet, which may provide motivation to the humans that they live with. Forget starting a workout routine this summer and take a trip to your local animal shelter to commence the spring.

Read the full article via the New York Times

The Health of Self-Compassion

Be content! People who score high on tests of self-compassion generally experience less anxiety, and tend to be more optimistic.

Read the full article via the New York Times

A Vision For the Future

Baby Research! 10% of babies who sleep in the dark most nights need glasses, compared to 34% with night lights and 55% with room lights.

Read the full article via PC World

Health Care in the U.S.A.

Reducing health care costs remains rather partisan, with 76% of Democrats rating it as a top priority compared to 48% of Republicans.

* Source: Pew Research Center

The Economics of the Common Cold

Americans spend approximately $40 billion a year dealing with common cold symptoms, with over the counter medicine and doctor visits.

* Source: NPR Marketplace