Seasonal Stress Management Blog
Hi! I’m Dr. Franssen. Or maybe you should call me Catherine, because in my blogs, you’ll get to know me a bit better.
Anyone who’s ever been cornered by me at a cocktail party can attest to the fact that I am utterly fascinated with the science behind stress, seasons, parenting, productivity, and pretty much everything that makes life interesting. In this blog I answer questions, reflect on personal and professional challenges, and share insights from my expertise. In short, this is neuroscience for everyday life.
If I haven’t written about something you care about yet, please reach out! I love answering questions.
Insomnia
While many people acknowledge a bit of missed sleep or tiredness, few realize how much sleep they are missing and how big a problem it may be. Insomnia may be affecting every part of your life, whether or not you know it.
Puzzles for your brain
Puzzles affect your cognitive abilities, but they also build resilience and promote relaxation.
Sleep as stress relief
While it’s not an active stress management strategy, sleep can actually be good for stress relief. After all, a lack of sleep leads to many stressful situations in the first place. Here we explore a bit of neuroscience behind how sleep deprivation results in increased stress.
Loneliness and the Stress of Being Alone
Winter is a time of increased social isolation and loneliness. Travel barriers from weather and illness increase our isolation this season. And even those of us who typically enjoy being alone feel the absence of others more acutely after the intense social connections of the holiday season. Why is isolation a stressor for us? What is loneliness?
Everyday STEM for the Family!
To kick off this holiday week at home with family, I’m reposting an article I wrote two years ago with loads of ideas on how we can integrate STEM learning into our daily activities to supplement kids’ education. Check it out!
Holiday Stress Tips
For this post, I’m flashing way back to 2011 when I gave what I’m pretty sure was my very first television interview ever! Rewatching it now, I'm actually impressed with the clear insights and concrete tips I was giving way back then! Take a few minutes to review my thoughts on reducing stress & enjoying the holiday season to the fullest. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6zzfMQ_fMSE
Four Ways to Prevent Overspending This Holiday Season
This holiday shopping season is going to be tough. Here are 4 ways to keep from overspending. (Originally published in CNN Business Perspectives)