After 30 years of smoking more than a pack of cigarettes a day, my 56-year-old patient was skeptical that she could stop smoking. Even though she had made several unsuccessful attempts, she decided to try Chantix, a nicotine blocker, when it became available in 2006. To her surprise, she succeeded and continues to be a [...]

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Since forming in early 2013, the Library Wellness Committee has created a walking group, a yoga group, an annual Bring Your Daughter or Son to Work Day, and a peer recognition program. I spoke with committee members Heidi Nance, Jenny Muilenburg, and Barbara Petite about what they’ve learned along the way that could make it [...]

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Breast cancer is a very common disease and a very frightening diagnosis. It is the second deadliest cancer in women. We all know women who were diagnosed with breast cancer in their 40s. Some of us know women who died of breast cancer at a young age. In November 2009, the U.S. Preventive Services Task [...]

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As the ability to stay connected 24/7 becomes a more complete reality, the only way to get a break from digital communication is to force ourselves to take one.  I love my smartphone and need it for my job (I’m a Social Media Specialist) but I’m going to share why I believe digital detoxes are [...]

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For some reason, with anything I commit to in my life, there has to be a challenge, a prize, or a goal. My goal for my new hobby is to keep everything alive. I am one of those people who is high strung and thrives on stress. I have learned that it is okay to [...]

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Dietary supplements constitute a multi-billion dollar industry in the United States. With revenue like this, it’s no surprise that the variety of vitamins and minerals available is soaring, as are the claims for better health. Despite the fact that over half of U.S. adults take some form of dietary supplement, few are certain about what [...]

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Each year since I was in my mid-twenties, I have been observing “Dryuary.” What started out of pure exhaustion from combining my usual 20-something activities with a month full of holiday parties, has become an annual detoxifing ritual that my husband and various friends have joined in on. For one month, I say no thank [...]

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Dr. Richard Berger, professor emeritus for the School of Medicine, developed his mindfulness practice 12 years ago. As his personal practice evolved, he became interested in teaching mindfulness to others. Today, he is a certified mindfulness facilitator, having studied at the Center for Mindfulness at the University of Massachusetts, and receiving his certification from the [...]

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The New Year is a time for reflection and goal setting, but sometimes our resolutions can be at odds with each other. This year I want to try new things, be healthier, and save money. With that in mind, here are some of the amazing discounts that UW faculty and staff can receive. I’ve organized [...]

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