

Life Kit
NPR
Everyone needs a little help being a human. From sleep to saving money to parenting and more, host Marielle Segarra talks to experts to get the best advice out there. Life Kit is here to help you get it together. Want another life hack? Try Life Kit+. You'll support the show and unlock exclusive curated playlists and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org/lifekit
Episodes
Mentioned books

8 snips
Jan 3, 2022 • 18min
Mindfulness For Beginners
Jon Kabat-Zinn, the visionary behind mindfulness-based stress reduction, shares his expertise on integrating mindfulness into daily life and healthcare. He discusses how slowing down and focusing on the present moment can transform our reactions to stress. Jon emphasizes the journey of discovering mindfulness and how it enriches our connections, even in a tech-driven world. He clarifies common misconceptions about meditation, highlighting that having a 'blank mind' isn't necessary to reap its benefits. Embrace mindfulness to enhance your everyday experiences!

Dec 30, 2021 • 16min
When it comes to exercise, "all movements count"
Struggling to kickstart an exercise routine? Discover how just 22 minutes a day can bring health benefits and redefine what counts as exercise. Learn that all movements—from light activities like walking to short bursts of effort—contribute to your well-being. Embrace movement as a source of joy, not a chore, and find practical tips to integrate enjoyable exercises into your life. Say goodbye to excuses and realize that every small step counts towards a healthier you!

9 snips
Dec 28, 2021 • 20min
How to give the perfect toast
Toasts can make or break an event. Tips from seasoned speakers highlight the importance of storytelling and authenticity. Avoiding distractions like alcohol is crucial for a smooth delivery. Humor and mishaps serve as great learning tools. Plus, an uplifting New Year's toast serves as the perfect example of resilience and celebration. Master the art of toasting and leave a lasting impression!

9 snips
Dec 27, 2021 • 24min
6 tips on taking a break from drinking
Thinking of taking a break from drinking? Discover essential tips for navigating social pressures and reassessing your relationship with alcohol. Delve into the psychological effects of drinking and learn about healthier alternatives. Reflect on the benefits of initiatives like Dry January while emphasizing self-compassion. Gain practical advice for handling tricky situations and find support in shared experiences. This journey is about creating positive change and fostering clarity in your life.

Dec 23, 2021 • 17min
How solitude can help you regulate your mood
Colin Dwyer, an NPR journalist, dives into the fascinating research on solitude and its effects on our well-being. He discusses how even brief moments of being alone can rejuvenate us, while cautioning against excessive solitude that might lead to loneliness. The conversation explores practical tips for finding that perfect balance and emphasizes the emotional benefits of purposeful solitude. Dwyer also highlights how these quiet times can strengthen our connections with others, fostering community through shared stillness.

Dec 21, 2021 • 17min
How to give thoughtful holiday gifts on a budget
Tiffany Dodson, a gift guide writer for Self Magazine, shares her expertise on thoughtful holiday gifting. She discusses how meaningful gifts can express love without overspending. Tiffany highlights budget-friendly strategies like charitable donations and experience-based gifts that prioritize the recipient's interests. She also dives into the value of homemade presents and innovative wrapping techniques, showcasing how presentation can enhance sentiment. Overall, it's a delightful talk about keeping the spirit of gift-giving alive while being mindful of your budget.

Dec 20, 2021 • 24min
Your questions on holiday anxieties, answered by psychologist Andrea Bonior
In this discussion with Andrea Bonior, a licensed clinical psychologist, the conversation dives into the emotional challenges that arise during the holiday season. She offers insightful strategies on managing family dynamics, especially around health concerns and differing perspectives. Andrea emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries in communication and navigating loneliness, while also addressing the need for honoring lost loved ones. Her practical advice helps listeners create meaningful traditions amidst the chaos of holiday expectations.

5 snips
Dec 18, 2021 • 15min
What happens in our brain when we grieve — and how it helps us stay afloat
Psychologist Mary-Frances O'Connor, author of "The Grieving Brain," shares insights on how our brains process grief as a learning and healing opportunity. She discusses the emotional chaos of loss, using vivid analogies to articulate the feelings that arise. O'Connor explains how grief affects identity and contrasts normal grieving with prolonged grief disorder. She also addresses the unique challenges faced by those mourning during the COVID-19 pandemic, connecting personal loss to broader historical experiences.

Dec 17, 2021 • 11min
How to shop for sustainable holiday gifts
Annalise Griffin, a journalist passionate about sustainability, shares her unique perspective on holiday gift shopping. She discusses the environmental benefits of buying secondhand, emphasizing how it can ease holiday consumption's impact. With practical tips, Annalise highlights the joy of finding thoughtful, thrifted gifts while fostering community connections. She also delves into the pressures of consumerism during the festive season and offers strategies for mindful spending to create a more eco-friendly holiday experience.

6 snips
Dec 16, 2021 • 21min
How to squash negative self-talk
Joy Harden Bradford, an Atlanta-based clinical psychologist and founder of Therapy for Black Girls, shares insights on tackling negative self-talk. She discusses strategies to monitor and replace harmful inner dialogues with self-compassion. Joy emphasizes the impact of childhood experiences on current self-perception and offers practical tips like recording voice memos for positive reinforcement. The discussion also underscores the importance of authentic self-talk and finding joy in nature and community, promoting mental wellness for Black women.