Life Kit: Health

It's getting darker and colder, and there's still a pandemic. Oh, and then there's seasonal affective disorder. Here's how to spot it and what you can do. (This episode originally aired in October 2020.)Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Shame and stigma play a huge role in discouraging folks in the Latinx community from seeking mental health care — and talking about it with their families. These steps can help you prepare for the conversation with your loved ones.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

When's the best time to start a new habit? And what makes some stick while others fall by the wayside? Behavioral scientist Katy Milkman's new book, How to Change, breaks down the research about how to leverage human nature instead of working against it to achieve your goals. (This episode originally aired in May 2021.)Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Infectious disease specialist Dr. Jasmine Marcelin shares how she has conversations about the COVID-19 vaccine with people who have doubts about getting vaccinated. (A version of this episode originally aired on NPR's Short Wave.)Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Amid the omicron surge, there is understandable anxiety among parents, particularly those with kids under 5. In this episode, infectious disease doctor Ibukun Kalu answers listeners' questions on the latest COVID variant, daycare and travel for unvaccinated children.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

In 2021, nearly half of all new year's resolutions in the U.S. were based on weight loss. Why do we set these goals for ourselves? Diet culture, the social expectations that value thinness and appearance above all else, can impact how we view our bodies and treat others. The good news is, we can free ourselves from this mindset.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

It's counterintuitive, but an effective way to manage our negative reactions to life's stressors actually involves slowing down and paying very close attention. Jon Kabat-Zinn, the founder of Mindfulness-Based-Stress-Reduction, explains how to begin a meditation practice — and how doing so can help you seize the present moment.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Feeling blocked with it comes to starting an exercise habit? You can actually get the health benefits of exercise with just 22 minutes of exercise a day — and you might be surprised what "counts" as exercise. Kiss your excuses goodbye! (This episode originally aired in December 2018.)Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Thinking about taking a break from drinking? Here are ways to help you make a plan, navigate tricky social situations and reassess your relationship with alcohol so you can experience the benefits of dry January. (This episode originally aired in January 2020.)Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Everyone needs a little alone time, but during this pandemic, you may have felt like you had too much "me" time or not enough. Let's get that balance back! This episode breaks down research behind what makes even small bouts of solitude restorative and what to do when you're alone too much. (This episode originally aired in July 2020).Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy