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September 21, 2016 


In September most families resume their busy lives: schools start, vacations end and traffic increases. Summer's long days and warm weather create an aura of extended time. The September challenge is how to encourage family time after the summer memories recede.
 
However family is defined, and whether you are a family of one, two or many, spending time with your family is critical. It conveys the message that they, or (with a family of one) you, matter!

The quality of time is pivotal. In a large-scale longitudinal study of parent time published in April 2015 in the Journal of Marriage and Family, there was no correlation between the quantity of parents' time with children and their emotional well-being; distracted parents led to stressed out, anxious children.
When looking at text messages, checking emails or answering a call, we are not paying full attention. Being totally present, however long the discussion or activity, communicates that the other person matters. Feeling valued enhances self-confidence and self-esteem.  
Family Time Matters 
  • Spending time in everyday family activities increases emotional bonding.
  • Downtime, whether spent with family or relaxing alone or with friends, increases productivity, creativity and problem solving.
  • Teens who frequently have dinner with their families are at a lower risk for substance abuse.
  • For most people having strong family ties is a much bigger predictor of contentment than income.
    • Take Action and Get Positive Results 
    Activities to promote happy, healthy families are innumerable and don't have to be expensive or difficult to access. The key is to pay attention! 
    • Share your goals with your family; try to get everyone on board.  
    • Imagine what will be different for you and your family when you achieve your goal.
    • Schedule time to spend, unplugged, with your family.
    • Have family meals together.
    • Go for a walk together.
    • Watch a movie or a favorite television show together.
    Remember: change starts with taking one small step. See what works and discard what doesn't.   
     
    At Core Counseling, you can pursue Mind-Body Wellness through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness and other therapeutic techniques. To find out more or to schedule an appointment, call me at Core Counseling, LLC: 201.875.5699. Experience a comfortable, private and confidential environment with an atmosphere of encouragement, optimism and compassion.

    Together we can find solutions to your core issues. "There is no doubt that it is around the family and the home that all the greatest virtues, the most dominating virtues of human, are created, strengthened and maintained." Winston S. Churchill

    In Health and Wellness,

    Lisa Fedder, MSW, LCSW, LCADC
    www.corecounselingsolutions.com
    560 Sylvan Avenue                     108 Baker Street
    Englewood Cliffs, NJ  07632       Maplewood, NJ  07040
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